Manila Standard - 2021 October 29 - Friday

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IATF: Vax no need for job

It’s final: Unvaxxed workers can’t be fired nor applicant must be vaxxed By Rey E. Requejo, Joel E. Zurbano and Othel Campos

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HE Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF) confirmed that employers cannot fire their unvaccinated workers or impose vaccination as a prerequisite for employment, Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra said Thursday.

Guevarra, a member of the IATF, said “I emphasized that the ‘COVID-19 the members of the task force agreed on Vaccination Program Act of 2021’ was Oct. 26 that vaccination cannot be used clear on the non-compulsory nature of as a prerequisite for employment. Next page

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Graveyards turn silent as gov’t bans visit to cemeteries today THOUSANDS of people flocked to cemeteries on Thursday for their last chance to visit dead loved ones as graveyards close their doors to the public today ahead of All Saints’ Day to prevent overcrowding and a possible surge in COVID-19 cases. Filipinos usually pour into cemeteries on November 1 for the ancient Christian tradition, many holding family reunions at the gravesites of relatives. But for the second year in a row, the government has ordered the shuttering of cemeteries for fear the “day of the dead” could turn into a coronavirus superspreader event. An official tally shows more than 60,000 people have poured into the sprawling Manila North Cemetery over the past few days where many poor people live in shanties and the mausoleums. After passing through a temperature check, relatives placed small bouquets of white flowers and lit candles on tombs – and then left. Hours before the gates were locked Thursday, Eloisa Sebastian visited the grave of her 60-year-old mother, Erly, who died suddenly in April. “We used to run to her whenever we had problems so it’s difficult to accept (she’s gone),” Sebastian told AFP. “I still cry almost every day, even at work.”

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Ilonggo devotees light candles for their dearly departed loved ones at the Jaro Cathedral in Iloilo City ahead of All Souls’ Day. In Valenzuela City, people flock at the Karuhatan Public cemetery to spruce up the tombs and offer flowers and candles on Thursday as all cemeteries in Metro Manila will be closed to the public starting today (Friday, October 29, 2021) until November 2. Manny Palmero

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Dentists added as vaccinators for kids, seniors By Willie Casas and Joel E. Zurbano

Binay, who is seeking a Senate seat next year, said the national government should learn from the premature loosening of restrictions at around this time last year. “We were hit by a surge a few months

THE government is planning to hire more vaccinators—including dentists—as the country gets ready to inoculate minors aged 12 to 17 against COVID-19, the Department of Health said Thursday. Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire said they are also doing this in preparation for the administering of booster shots to health care workers and senior citizens, and a third dose to immunocompromised persons. In an interview on ANC, Vergeire said the pediatric vaccination and the booster shots would mean an additional 10 million people. “So we are looking at adding more

Doctors’ group, Binay caution gov’t on reopening, warn of fourth wave THE head of the Philippine College of Physicians (PCP) and former vice president Jejomar Binay have cautioned the government against relaxing COV-

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ID-19 restrictions too quickly as it may result in a fourth wave of infections. The warning from Dr. Maricar Limpin came as transport officials pushed to increase passenger capacity on public utility vehicles to 100 percent. “It’s a little bit frightening, that we’re

going to do 100 percent, and we understand that’s what they’re proposing and that’s the plan because of the downward trend of our COVID-19 cases,” she said in Filipino. Binay also warned it was too early to relax quarantine restrictions.

Comelec spox: Leni no criminal liability for her vote-buying view By Joel E. Zurbano and Macon Ramos-Araneta THE spokesman of the Commission on Election clarified Thursday that Vice President Maria Leonor “Leni” Robredo could not be held criminally liable for her earlier statement regarding vote buying. “I don’t see any liability for her now.

I think it is not something that should have been said, but in terms of criminal liability, I don’t really see it,” Comelec spokesperson James Jimenez told CNN Philippines’ The Source. In a recent forum, Robredo, a candidate for president in the May 9, 2022 elections, said voters could accept money offered by candidates but must vote Next page

Residents line up early dawn outside a mall in Manila to wait for the opening of the Comelec satellite voter registration site on Thursday. At least 400,000 new voters have been added to the list of registered voters for the May 2022 general elections, Comelec said on Tuesday as it extended the registration period to October 30. Norman Cruz

3 priests enter poll race, lose pastoral duties Antidepressant cuts COVID hospitalization risk by 32% TREATING high-risk COVID-19 patients with the antidepressant f luvoxamine may reduce the risk of prolonged hospitalization by up to a third, a large-scale study

showed Thursday. Authors said the research could help boost low-cost protection against severe sickness or death in Next page

THREE Catholic priests in the Philippines – two in Bicol and one in Mindanao -- have been permanently relieved of their pastoral and other priestly duties after they declared their intention to run for public office in the May 2022 elections, the Hong Kongbased Union of Catholic Asian News (UCAN) has said. Quoting the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines, UCAN Next page

PCSO SHARE. Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office general manager Royina Garma

(left) turns over a check worth P17 million to Commission on Higher Education chief accountant Myra Manalo. Aside from Ched, some 13 local government units in Metro Manila also received their share from the total revenues of PCSO operations in their areas. ‘PCSO provides funds for projects and charitable activities on a nationwide scale while the LGU can use the PCSO funds for projects that are beneficial to their respective municipalities, towns, and cities. Two separate agencies working in parallel toward nationbuilding,” Garma said. Manny Palmero

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Pharmally execs failed to pay correct taxes—Senate probe By Macon Ramos-Araneta

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HINESE businessman Michael Yang, former economic adviser of President Rodrigo Duterte, and other personalities, including Pharmally executives linked to the alleged multibillion government deals involving COVID-19 medical supplies failed to pay correct taxes, Senator Franklin Drilon said.

provided by the BIR, were not readable. Drilon also cited the alleged non-filing and incomplete ITR records of former Undersecretary Christopher Lloyd Lao, chief of the Department of Budget and Management Procurement Service. When the transactions for the COVID medical supplies were made, Drilon said Lao did not file an ITR in 2020. Lao allegedly declared zero taxable income in 2017 and had filed ITR through electronic BIR forms for years 2018 and 2019. But Drilon said these filings could not be viewed by the BIR. Drilon also said the BIR had no information on the ITR of Pharmally corporate secretary and treasurer Mohit Dargani for 2018.

He said Mohit’s taxable income for 2019 and 2020 were both unreadable but he had paid P22,062 and P97,241, respectively. Mohit’s sister, Pharmally president Twinkle Dargani, paid P29,187 for her ITR in 2018 and P1,000 only for her ITR in 2020. However, BIR records on Twinkle’s taxable income for 2018 and 2020 are both unreadable. Also, BIR has no information on her ITR for 2019. “The ITRs of the Darganis are incomplete and have several unreadable portions, but the taxable incomes and taxes paid appear to be very low, especially considering that they were able to buy luxury cars during relevant periods,” Drilon said.

an additional mandatory requirement for educational, employment, and other similar government transaction purposes.” Guevarra cited the provision in the law after several business groups recommended the employment only of persons who have been vaccinated against COVID-19. The Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP) on Thursday thanked Guevarra for upholding the law and standing up for workers during the pandemic. The TUCP said Guevarra’s pronouncements on the issue offer assurance to workers who were demoralized and confused on the prospect of losing their jobs and their families go hungry caused by Labor Secretary Silvestre

Bello’s interpretation of an IATF guidelines that some unvaccinated workers in some sectors can be fired and cannot be hired during Alert Level 3. The country’s biggest group of local business owners, the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) said Thursday its members should not fire workers who refuse to or cannot get vaccinated. “I agree with the IATF. But employers should make sure that (the workers) they will be hiring should be COVIDfree before deployment,” said PCCI chairman emeritus Francis Chua. He added that employers also need to protect the rest of their workers and keep a healthy environment for all. Only 4.41 million or 34.19 percent of the poor population have received their first dose while 2.83 million or 21.99 percent have been fully vaccinated as of October 27. Meanwhile, 6.42 million individuals with comorbidities or 71.19 percent have received one dose while 7.21 million or 80.01 percent have been fully vaccinated. A total of 1.61 million frontline health workers or 98.50 percent have been vaccinated. For the rest of the adult population, around 1.16 million individuals have received one dose while 323,412 have been fully vaccinated. The Philippines has so far tallied 26.47 million fully vaccinated citizens. Also on Thursday, the Philippines hit the 100 million mark in vaccine arrivals as more jabs arrived from the United Kingdom and the United States. The country received 896,000 doses of AstraZeneca vaccines Thursday afternoon while another shipment of 976,950 doses of Pfizer arrived on Wednesday night. The latest Pfizer shipment is part of the 2,927,340 Pfizer vaccine doses scheduled to arrive this week. The Pfizer vaccines procured by the Philippine government landed at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport - Terminal 3 around 9 p.m. on board Air Hong Kong flight LD-456 while the AstraZeneca shipment arrived at Terminal 1 via Nippon Airways flight NH-8595 and was donated by the Japanese government. The latest vaccine delivery will be used to inoculate minors across the country. Vaccine czar Carlito Galvez said the bulk of the supply will be allocated for the nationwide rollout of the pediatric vaccination, which begins on Nov. 3. Flowers and candles were placed on the plaque engraved with the epitaph “We love you forever.” She was “like my sister because I’m an only child”, said Garcia, 23, wearing a mask and face shield. “It’s really sad because we grew up together – my best friend and sister does not exist anymore.” AFP

after, even worse than the surge last year. And it is the people who suffered the most. They should be cautious. They should be prepared and they should be certain. It is better to be cautious now, than sorry later,” he said. Limpin said even if new daily cases have dropped to about 3,000, this still means that the virus is still in the Philippines. She also noted that there is a slight uptick in COVID-19 cases worldwide. “In the UK, cases are increasing, and we’re seeing a mutation in the Delta variant, and of course we’re not just opening 100 percent capacity in transportation but we’ve also opened our borders, so we’ve also opened up the possibility that there’s going to be a mutation here,” she said. Limpin noted that social distancing would no longer be possible in public transportation if they operate at full capacity. “Definitely there’s no safety protocols there except for the mask,” she said. She said air-conditioned buses were particularly dangerous as these would be enclosed spaces with no air circulating from outside. Limpin advised government officials to take it slow when it comes to easing quarantine restrictions. “So I would like to recommend that they think about it first. Maybe it’s not bad if we still implement current strict measures and interventions,” she said. Binay said while cases are declining and more people are vaccinated now than last year, vaccine hesitancy remains high in the provinces, and they also lack access to vaccines. The former vice president said hospital administrators have said they are not feeling the downtrend as their facilities remain full. He added that the situation is aggravated by the continuing departure of nurses and health workers. Instead of spending money on projects such as the dolomite beach on Roxas Boulevard in Manila, the government should shift spending priorities to public health, Binay said. Amid these warnings, the Department of Health (DOH) said COVID-19 deaths have gone down by more than half the peak tallied last month. The Philippines has been recording a daily average of 68 coronavirus deaths this month, down from a peak of 168 a day in September, said DOH Epidemiology Bureau chief Dr. Alethea De Guzman. The country has gone down to lowrisk classification as coronavirus cases declined, the Health Department said earlier this week. “We continue to remind people that despite the decline in our cases, utilization rate, and deaths, this is not the time to be complacent,” De Guzman said, following reports of crowds at malls and an artificial beach in Manila. “We need to be able to sustain the gains,” she said in a televised briefing. Metro Manila is under COVID-19 Alert Level 3 until Sunday. Malacañang earlier said there was a big chance that the region’s 13 million people would shift to a lower alert level. A total of 19 other areas are covered by the pilot of the 5-level alert system and accompanying granular lockdowns since last week. The number of areas under strict quarantine have also gone down. Meanwhile, the Department of Tourism (DOT) on Thursday said 14 destinations across the country have scrapped their swab test requirement for fully vaccinated guests. Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat welcomed the latest development, noting that the DOT has been pushing for fewer restrictions and requirements, especially if the local travel destinations have high vaccination rates among their locals and tourism workers.

of civil power,” the statement said. Bishop Jose Rojas of the Libmanan Diocese described Pitapit’s decision to enter politics as a “sad event.” “Father Granwell Pitapit decided to leave the priestly ministry and the priesthood for personal reasons,” UCAN quoted Bishop Rojas in his letter to parishioners. “Consequently, this decision to enter politics means his priestly functions are hereby revoked. This is deemed irreversible, thus preventing him from returning to the priestly ministry.” He said while the revocation was immediate, a priest could not “immediately” engage in marriage without undergoing a special process at the Vatican

called laicization. “Father Pitapit is now free, that is, without incurring further canonical censure, to engage in secular undertakings that do not necessarily violate his priestly vows,” Rojas said. All three priests were also stripped of their roles in various Church agencies such as Caritas. Alparce said he had filed his candidacy to run as a councilor in Albay province after much prayer and deep discernment. “The first thing that I did was to pray. It was not easy. I also consulted my brother priests and, most importantly, I listened to my heart and conscience,” Alparce was quoted as telling reporters on Oct. 26.

During the 13th hearing of the Senate Blue Ribbon committee on the alleged misuse of the Department of Health’s funds for the procurement of personal protective equipment, face masks and face shields, Drilon said Yang paid only P7,600 in income tax in 2018. He did not pay his duties from 2014 to 2017. Drilon presented before the commit-

tee, chaired by Senator Richard Gordon, a BIR certification showing that Yang did not file ITRs (Income Tax returns) for fiscal years 2014 to 2017. While Yang had a taxable income of P208,000 in 2018, Drilon said he only paid P7,600 to the BIR. However, Drilon also noted that the ITR records of Yang in 2019 and 2020, as

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according to their conscience. According to Jimenez, several candidates also made the same comments on the issue of vote buying, and if Robredo would be criminally liable, it would mean the Comelec would also have to investigate others. “I would say, then we would have to probe everyone who ever said that. Remember it’s not just one person who said that, multiple candidates have actually said that,” said Jimenez who earlier said he disagreed with the notion of taking the money and voting according to one’s conscience. In the case of another presidential aspirant, Senator Manuel Pacquiao, who gave money to residents during his recent visit in Batangas, Jimenez said campaign rules applied “only at the start of the campaign period” which would start in February for those running for national posts. But Pacquiao defended himself from giving cash assistance to the poor and the needy, stressing that this did not amount to vote buying. Even before he filed his candidacy for president, Pacquiao said he had been used to handing money to the people since he did not know the kind of help they needed. “I have been giving help since 2002 . Aside from relief packs, the reason for our cash assistance is that we do not know what they need. Our help comes from hard-earned money and not from the nation’s coffers,” the world boxing champ-turned politician said. The poll body urged candidates not to engage in vote buying, promising money or offering anything of value to voters, saying the practice was a ground for disqualification. Section 261 of the Omnibus Election Code states there is vote-buying when a person “gives, offers or promises money or anything of value” to induce anyone to vote for or against any candidate. Vote buying is an election offense, which carries a penalty of one to six years imprisonment as well as the removal of right to vote and be voted on. For his part, Senator Panfilo Lacson, who is running under Partido Reporma, said: “If voters think that accepting money or selling their votes is the only way to immediately benefit from a politician, they should be aware that they would suffer for a longer period in return.”

vaccination as an additional requirement for employment,” Guevarra said. “Unless amended or modified by Congress, it is the existing and applicable law,” he added Guevarra recalled that during the meeting that no IATF member expressed “any different or contrary position.” On Oct. 20, Guevarra warned employers against violations of Section 12 of Republic Act No. 115251, the COVID-19 Vaccination Program Act of 2021. He said that under RA 115251, “the vaccine cards shall not be considered as

vaccinators, expanding hours of vaccination, and expanding the vaccination sites,” Vergeire said. She said vaccine supplies for those entitled to receive them should not be a problem. The Philippines has so far fully vaccinated 25.7 million people against COVID-19, and aims to inoculate at least 77 million to achieve population protection against the respiratory illness as more transmissible variants emerge. The DOH said Thursday that dentists are now allowed to be vaccinators against COVID-19. Health Undersecretary Myrna Cabotaje said the DOH has coordinated with the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) and the Philippine Dental Association (PDA). Cabotaje said the dentists must coordinate with local government units. “They should be registered… and they must link with the LGU. The supervisor of the dentist is a medical doctor. The doctor, the head of the implementing unit, should know that he has an additional dentist,” she said. Cabotaje said the DOH has sent funds to various regions for the services of those who have been hired in the vaccination program. The vaccination of all minors 12 to 17 years old will start on Nov. 3 in the National Capital Region (NCR), while the nationwide implementation will be on Nov. 5, the DOH said Thursday. “We will have an initial kick-off on Nov. 3, and we are very ready in the NCR,” Cabotaje said. Cabotaje also said that some areas

which are already prepared for the pediatric vaccination may join the NCR in the initial kick-off on Nov. 3. “By Nov. 5, [we will have] full nationwide implementation [of the program for children] 12 to 17 years old,” she added. The National Task Force Against COVID-19 said the Philippines expects to vaccinate about 12.7 million adolescents aged 12 to 17. On the other hand, Cabotaje said the government aims to have fully vaccinated at least 80 percent of the target population by December. Cabotaje said that non-immunocompromised minors will be vaccinated at regular vaccination sites. She urged local government units (LGUs) to have separate lanes for minors.Cabotaje said the government will open up 123 hospital-based and nonhospital-based vaccination sites for the vaccination of minors with comorbidities nationwide on Friday. A total of 23,727 minors with comorbidities have already been vaccinated. At the same time, the DOH is pushing efforts toget more seniors vaccinated, as only 56 percent of the elderly population has been fully vaccinated. Government data showed on Wednesday that about 3.78 million senior citizens or 45.91 percent of the population have received their first dose of a vaccine while 4.64 million (56.22 percent) have completed their vaccine series. Cabotaje said the number of fully vaccinated seniors was higher due to use of the single-shot Janssen vaccine. Aside from seniors, who are considered most vulnerable to severe COVID-19 infection, vaccination numbers among the poor population must also be increased, Cabotaje said.

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for the faith. But the atmosphere was quiet and sombre Thursday with relatively few visitors. Flower vendor Bebe Fernandez told AFP her sales have plunged this year. “People have no money because of this pandemic,” said Fernandez, whose bouquets cost P35 each.

COVID-19 restrictions have devastated the economy and thrown millions out of work during the pandemic, which has seen more than 2.7 million people infected and over 42,000 killed. In the pet section of the cemetery, Zia Garcia and her mother cleaned the gravestone of their Pomeranian-Shih Tzu mix dog Queenie, who died in February.

Major cemeteries in Manila are usually crowded for All Saints’ Day – a tradition dating back centuries to the ancient practice in Rome, which honours all saints and martyrs who died

Antidepressant... From A1 countries that have yet to receive adequate vaccine doses during a grossly uneven rollout. Fluvoxamine is traditionally used to treat mental health conditions such as depression and obsessivecompulsive disorders and was selected for trial due to its anti-inf lammatory properties. Many problems stemming from COVID are caused by swelling as the immune system overreacts to the infection. Writing in the journal The Lancet

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Public Health, researchers from North and South America, described results in nearly 1,500 Covid-19 outpatients in Brazil. Of the 741 people that received fluvoxamine, 79 – just over 10 percent – had an extended stay in hospital. Of the 756 who received a placebo, 119 (15.7 percent) were hospitalized. Authors said that administering fluvoxamine resulted in a relative reduction in hospitalizations of 32 percent. “COVID-19 still poses a risk to individuals in countries with low resources and limited access to vaccinations,” said Edward Mills of McMaster University, co-principal investigator on the trial. AFP

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3Frompriests... A1 identified the three as Father Noli Alparce of the Sorsgon Diocese and Father Granwell Pitapit of the Libmanan Diocese as well as Father Emergon Luego of the Tagum Diocese in Mindanao. UCAN said the three had received decrees informing them of the sanction from their respective diocesan bishops, according to their statement issued on October 26. The prelates were obliged by canon law to act against the three as priests “are prohibited from assuming public office which entails participation in the exercise

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Higher stroke mortality for COVID-19 patients—group

COVID BRIEFS 3rd Chinese city under lockdown

By Macon Ramos-Araneta THE Philippines will join the community of nations in celebrating World Stroke Day 2021 Friday under the theme #Precious Time. Dr. Maria Epifania Collantes of the Stroke Society of the Philippines, citing a study that suggests that stroke mortality of patients with COVID-19 is high at 59 percent, said “when experiencing even the mildest symptoms of stroke, every second that goes by is crucial and there is a need for timely access to medical emergency care.” During a Zoom media briefing, Collantes noted there was no “first aid” for a stroke victim, adding a patient should at once be rushed to a hospital. “There is the Golden Hour: Time is of the essence. Immediate treatment of a stroke can minimize the longterm effects and helps reduce the risk of death from stroke,” she said. According to her, a retrospective study also indicated that 42 percent with mild COVID infection still suffered from stroke while 29 percent with severe COVID cases had stroke. She said 2,018 patients with COVID-19 infection from Philippine General Hospital were part of the study population, and 41 out of the 2,018 patients (or 2 percent) developed acute stroke. The mean age of patients was 59 years old. Established by the World Stroke Organization, and supported locally by Angels Initiative, a global healthcare initiative launched by Boehringer Ingelheim, together with the Stroke Society of the Philippines, World Stroke Day aims to increase awareness about the signs and symptoms of stroke, improve stroke prevention, and have access to quality stroke treatment. Collantes said a nationwide, comparative, retrospective, cohort study among adult, hospitalized COVID19 patients involved 37 hospital sites from various regions.

A family visits the tomb of their departed loved ones at the Libingan ng Mga Bayani in Taguig City on Thursday, October 28, 2021. Danny Pata

Rody tells Myanmar junta: Talk to Asean By Vito Barcelo

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RESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte has urged all parties in Myanmar to engage in constructive dialogue with members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations to end internal conflict.

“The Philippines urges all parties in Myanmar to engage in constructive dialogue with ASEAN. We are, after all, an ASEAN family. And if we cannot trust each other and work together, then who can Myanmar trust and work with?” Duterte said during the 38th and 39th Asean Summits and Related Summits virtually via video conference. Myanmar has been in turmoil since Aung San Suu Kyi’s government was ousted by the military in February, spark-

ing a nationwide uprising that the junta has tried to crush. “We stress that Asean’s Special Envoy must be able to visit Myanmar soon and meet all the parties involved,” Duterte said All sides should be heard for the Asean community to be able to “effectively assist Myanmar in pursuing enduring peace and stability,” Duterte said, noting history has shown that taking the consultative approach paves the way for democratization. According to the President, the Asean

should collectively address the Myanmar issue “as a responsible community.” Duterte said the United Nations Security Council and General Assembly has also strongly condemned the crackdown on peaceful protesters and civil society. “They called for the immediate and unconditional release of arbitrary detainees and an end to restrictions on freedom of expression,” he said. Expressing his concern, Duterte said Myanmar’s rejection of Asean’s sincere offers of assistance might undermine the mutual trust and confidence that Aseanmember states shared, as well as that of key external partners and other international organizations. At the same time, the President encouraged stakeholders to continue providing humanitarian assistance to all in need, especially Rohingya and citizens of Myanmar who seek refuge.

CHINA placed a third city under lockdown on Thursday to tackle COVID-19 numbers, with around six million people now under orders to stay home as Beijing chases zero cases before the upcoming Winter Olympics. Although the hard-line measures have kept the number of new cases far lower than most countries, the world’s most populous nation is currently grappling with small outbreaks in at least eleven provinces. The resurgence prompted officials this week to lock down Lanzhou city – with a population of over four million – and Ejin in the Inner Mongolia region.

Moscow shuts non-essentials

Brazil virus death

MOSCOW on Thursday shut shops, schools and restaurants for 11 days in a bid to stop a surge in coronavirus infections and deaths that came after vaccination efforts stalled. All non-essential services, including retail outlets, restaurants, and sporting and entertainment venues will be closed until November 7, along with schools and kindergartens. Only shops selling food, medicine and other essentials will remain open, as authorities try to tackle a coronavirus wave that has seen infections and deaths hit new records.

toll now world’s

NZ ‘fortress’ to reopen border NEW Zealand on Thursday unveiled plans to tentatively reopen its borders amid growing pressure from Kiwis stranded overseas by some of the world’s toughest pandemic travel restrictions. COVID-19 Response Minister Chris Hipkins said arrivals from a handful of tiny Pacific island states would be granted quarantine-free travel from next month and other low-risk countries would be considered early next year. AFP

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Marcos keeps lead in latest Center survey By Rey E. Requejo

FACTORY SELFIE. Presidential aspirant Manila Mayor Isko Moreno Domagoso (left) takes a selfie with workers and management of Pampanga’s Best meat products in San Fernando on Thursday. Domagoso visited three factories in the province and revealed his plan to rehabilitate thousands of micro small and medium enterprises that were forced to close down amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Norman Cruz

HITS CUSI FACTION ‘DESPERATION’ MOVE

Koko blasts Rody Senate bid

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

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EN. Koko Pimentel, national chairman of the Pacquiao faction of the PDP-Laban party, on Thursday branded as “desperation” a rival faction’s move of encouraging President Rodrigo Duterte to join the senatorial race in the 2022 national elections. “Shows desperation on the part of (Energy Secretary and faction president Alfonso) Cusi and his group. They give the impression that they do not have strong candidates within their group and that they are all simply riding on and are totally dependent on the popularity and strength of personality of

the incumbent President,” said Pimentel in a statement. “That for us is ‘personality politics’ which we want to see ended here in PH as soon as possible,” the senator added, noting that leaders should aspire for issue-based politics.

Cusi admitted in a radio interview yesterday that if their faction of PDP-Laban can’t have Duterte as their vice president, they wanted him instead to run as senator to bring his style of leadership to the Senate and “revolutionize” the Upper Chamber. He told TeleRadyo he is sure one of their group’s senatoriables would be ready to give way to the President if he decides to seek a Senate seat. “I’m sure that one of them will be ready to make the sacrifice if the President will run,” Cusi said. Melvin Matibag, secretary general of the Cusi faction, said Pimentel “must be

referring to himself” when he made that statement. “Personality politics is advising Senator Manny Pacquiao to run for president just because he is popular even though the latter is a non-performer in the Senate and leads all senators in most absences,” Matibag said in his own statement. “The idea of President Rodrigo Duterte running for senator is an offshoot to what some senators are doing now, abusing the oversight powers of the Senate in aid of reelection instead of crafting laws to uplift the lives of the ordinary Filipinos,” he added.

Isko unveils plan to rehab COVID-hit biz MANILA City Mayor Isko Moreno Domagoso on Thursday revealed his plan to rehabilitate thousands of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) that were forced to close down and laid off millions ofworkers due to the COVID-19 pandemic. “I feel the hardship suffered by the millions of workers who lost their jobs due to the pandemic. How do we help them? We have a plan. And it is similar to what I did in Manila,” Moreno told employees of Pampanga’s Best, famous for its tocino, in San Fernando, Pampanga. MSMEs comprise 99.5 percent of businesses in the country and employ 63 percent of the country’s total workforce. They contribute 40 percentof the gross domestic product (GDP). Domagoso visited three factories in Pampanga and praised the owners for managing their businesses well during the time of the pandemic. Rey E. Requejo

Grant yearend bonus, QC told By Maricel V. Cruz A PARTY-LIST lawmaker on Thursday urged the Quezon City government to grant a yearend incentive equivalent to one-month salary to all its employees. “This would be an additional financial assistance to city personnel, who, like most of our people, have been suffering from economic hardship caused by the COVID-19 pandemic,” Anakalusugan Rep. Mike Defensor said. Defensor, who is running for mayor in the May 2022 elections, said the city has the finances to give a yearend bonus. He said based on its own report, the city government collected P22 billion from local taxes alone in 2020 and should be collecting that much this year, aside from billions in internal revenue allotments representing the city’s share of national taxes. “Clearly, the city can afford the extra one-month salary, in addition to other incentives and compensation city employees are entitled to under the law,” he added.

ILOILO IN PINK. A morning jogger runs past lampposts tied with pink ribbons on a bridge in Iloilo City and around the metropolis as the local community shares their support for Vice President Leni Robredo. Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas recently supported Robredo’s candidacy in next year’s presidential elections. Iloilo Mayor’s Office

Lacson-Sotto ‘Online Kumustahan’ hits Pampanga PARTIDO Reporma chairman and standard-bearer Panfilo “Ping” Lacson is scheduled to meet with political leaders and residents of Pampanga on Friday to offer possible solutions he had in mind as regards the most pressing concerns of their province. The activity is part of the “Online Kumustahan” virtual town hall forums organized by Partido Reporma and its allied political parties to support his presi-

dential bid in tandem with running mate Senate President Vicente “Tito” Sotto III. Lacson is set to visit Brgy. San Antonio in Mexico, Pampanga for an inperson socially distanced gathering that will be streamed live via Zoom video conference and through his verified Facebook account (@PingLacsonOfficial) at 2 p.m. Also participating in the afternoon virtual forum are the local leaders and

residents from the City of San Fernando and Barangays San Juan in San Simon, Mandasig in Candaba, and Apalit in Floridablanca, Pampanga. Meanwhile, hotlines to respond to all concerns being raised by Lacson and Sotto were set up by the party. They said the hotlines and call center will address the public’s queries on issues, policies, and platforms of government by Partido Reporma. Macon Ramos-Araneta

PARTIDO Federal ng Pilipinas standardbearer Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has sustained his lead in the recent noncommissioned survey conducted by Issues and Advocacy Center, or The Center —showing that the public sees him as their preferred presidential candidate for the 2022 elections. Based on the Pulso ng Pilipino nationwide survey conducted among 2,400 respondents last September 27 to October 8, Marcos is leading the presidential race, obtaining a highest preference rating nationwide of 23.5%. Of the other candidates, Sen. Emmanuel “Manny” Pacquiao garnered 19.75% for the second spot, followed by Manila Mayor Isko Moreno Domagoso with 18%, Vice President Leni Robredo at 14%, Sen. Panfilo Lacson at 12.5%, Sen. Bato dela Rosa at 7.75%, Ka Leodegario de Guzman with 3.25%, and former National Security Adviser Norberto Gonzales with 1.25%. The Center considered the 23.5% rating generated by Marcos as “very significant.” While the research group sees there is no individual or organization who can take credit for the 23.5% rating of Marcos except him alone, the presidential aspirant believes that it is because of the support of his party and groups that he remains at the top of surveys. Last week, in the 3rd Quarter survey released by PUBLiCUS Asia Inc., Marcos emerged as the top presidential candidate. This, his camp said, confirmed the growing grassroots support for his candidacy and proved that the Kalye Surveys conducted by independent YouTube vloggers in various parts of the country consistently showed him as the top choice of the people.

Bicolanos, mayors express support for VP Leni, Kiko MAYORS from Vice President Leni Robredo’s native Bicol region have expressed their support for her presidential bid and for her running mate Senator Kiko Pangilinan in 2022. This comes on the heels of the volunteer-driven Joy Ride for Leni that showed immense grassroots support for their candidacies and inspired the nationwide pink caravan. People danced in the streets, wore bright pink shirts, and waved bright little pink flags even before it was 8 am on Thursday. Bicolanos rose early to welcome home their native daughter, called out her name and shouted “Laban!” as they made an “L” sign with their hands. The campaign of Robredo and Pangilinan for the May elections focuses on bringing back good governance that prioritizes the welfare of the people, especially providing livelihood and healthcare in the midst of the pandemic. Among the Bicol local chief executives backing the Leni-Kiko ticketare Labo, Camarines Norte Mayor Joseph Ascutia and Tabaco, Albay Mayor Krisel Lagman. Robredo is also set to meet with other Bicol political leaders, including Albay 1st District Rep. Edcel Lagman, Sorsogon Gov. andsenatorial candidate Chiz Escudero, Albay Gov. Al Francis Bichara, Albay board members, Agri partylist Rep. Delph Lee of Sorsogon, local candidates of the Liberal Party, and other political parties. VP Leni motored from her hometown, Naga City, Camarines Sur to neighboring Albay, particularly Ligao, Tabaco, and Bacacay.

PRO3 chief De Leon ‘Sara’s bet’ for PNP By Jun David WITH the retirement of Philippine National Police Chief General Guillermo Eleazar approaching on November 13, the rumors of who will replace him are heating up. One of the resounding names is Police Regional Office (PRO) 3 Director Brig. Gen. Val de Leon, who is said to be the personal bet of Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio. President Rodrigo Duterte’s daughter “Inday Sara” first met De Leon when he was only the Deputy Director for Operations of the Police Regional Office 11. De Leon was then only a colonel, and as former chief of the Davao City Police Office and Davao Oriental Police Provincial Office, he led the Special Investigation Task Group

when an explosion rocked the Davao City Night Market on September 2, 2016, leaving 15 people dead and 69 others injured. This impressed the people of Davao because the investigation they conducted was thorough. Due to the good presentation of solid evidence, 11 suspected members of the terrorist group Maute Group were found guilty by the Taguig Regional Trial Court of multiple murders and multiple attempted murders. De Leon is a member of the Makatao Class of 1989 of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA). His classmates are fellow Chief PNP contenders—PNP Deputy Director for Operations Maj. Gen. Rhodel Sermonia and Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) chief Brig. Gen.Albert Ferro.

WATERSHED CAMPAIGN. Officials of PrimeWater and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) sign the ‘Save Our Watershed’ campaign’s memorandum of understanding during the provincial launch at Villa Esmeralda Resort in Palayan City, Nueva Ecija. Signing the MOU are (from left) Nueva Ecija PENRO representatives For. Maria Auren Cabalquinto (Regional Focal Person); For. Cherica Ruby Claudio (Provincial Focal Person); and PrimeWater Vice President Engr. Romeo Sabater.

Opinion Developments on the rule on forum shopping Circular Number 04-94; both issued by the Supreme Court on February 8, 1994, under the leadership of Chief Justice Andres R. Narvasa. The issuance of the circulars was due “to the filing of multiple petitions and complaints involving the same issues in the Supreme Court, Court of Appeals or other tribunals or agencies with the result that said courts, tribunals and agencies have to resolve the same issues”. Before the issuance of the said circulars, forum shopping was more of an ethical issue rather than a procedural one. Section 5, Rule 7 of the 1997 Rules of Civil Procedure, which took effect on July 1, 1997, states that the failure to annex the certification is “not curable by mere amendment of the complaint or initiatory pleading but shall be cause for the dismissal of the case without prejudice”. This means that the dismissed complaint or initiatory pleading can be refiled. This Rule was not changed by the 2019 Amendments to the Rules of Civil Procedure. The requirement to file a certification on non-forum shopping is mandatory. Failure to comply with this requirement cannot be excused by the fact that the plaintiff is not guilty of forum shopping. It applies to any complaint, petition, application, or any other initiatory pleading, regardless of whether the party filing it has actually committed forum shopping. Every party filing a complaint, or any other initiatory pleading is required to swear under oath that he has not committed nor will commit forum shopping (Spouses Melo v. Court of Appeals, G.R. No. 123686, November 16, 1999). This will obviate the former practice of some trial courts in allowing the amendment of the incomplete pleading via supplying the missing certificate against forum shopping. It was erroneous since the undertaking against multiple filings of cases is not part of the operative facts that must be alleged in an initiatory pleading, but is a special requirement for its admission. Hence, the absence thereof is not curable by mere amendment (G.R. No. 123686, November 16, 1999). The contents of the certification are the same for the 1997 Rules of Civil Procedure and the 2019 Amendments, which must state that there is no action commenced or any claim filed involving the same issues in any court, tribunal or quasi-judicial agency; and, that, to the best of his knowledge, there is no such other action or claim that is pending in another court (Section 5, Rule 7, 2019 Amendments to the Rules of Civil Procedure [ARCP). The certification must also state that if there is another pending action or claim, a complete statement of the present status thereof must be provided; and if he later learns that the same or similar action or claim has been filed or is pending, he shall report that fact within five (5) days to the court wherein his complaint or initiatory pleading was filed (Section 5, Rule 7, 2019 ARCP).

FORUM shopping is when a party institutes two or more suits in different courts, either simultaneously or successively, to ask the courts to rule on the same or related causes or grant the same or substantially the same reliefs (Top Rate Construction & General Services, Inc. v. Paxton Development Corp., G.R. 151081, September 11, 2003). Multiple actions are initiated “on the supposition that one or the other court would make a favorable disposition or increase a party’s chances of obtaining a favorable decision or action” (G.R. 151081, September 11, 2003). This practice is prohibited by the Rules of Court and the lawyers’ Code of Professional Responsibility.

What is critical is the vexation brought upon the courts and litigants by a party engaged in this practice. Forum shopping can be committed in the following ways: (1) filing multiple cases based on the same cause of action and with the same prayer, with the previous case not having been resolved (litis pendentia); (2) filing multiple cases based on the same cause of action and the same prayer, with the previous case having been finally resolved (res judicata); and (3) filing multiple cases based on the same cause of action but with different prayers (splitting of causes of action, which is either litis pendentia or res judicata) (Zamora v. Quinan, et al., G.R. No. 216139, November 29, 2017). To determine whether a party violated the rule against forum shopping, either the elements of litis pendentia are present, or a final judgment in one case will amount to res judicata in another. Otherwise stated, the test for determining forum shopping is whether the parties, rights or causes of action, and reliefs sought are identical in the two (or more) cases (Zamora v. Quinan, et al., G.R. No. 216139, November 29, 2017 citing Yap v. Chua, et al.). It is interesting to note that there is no provision in the 1940 and 1964 Rules of Court that requires a “certification against forum shopping” to be annexed or appended to an initiatory pleading such as a complaint or petition. It was only in the 1997 Rules of Civil Procedure where the requirement of a certification was first introduced. While the provision on “certification against forum shopping” was officially incorporated in the 1997 Rules of Civil Procedure, the text was taken from Revised Circular No. 28-91 and Administrative

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Honor among dropouts

COMPLETING an education has always been a measure of success. Parents have the obligation to send their children to school and ensure that they become literate and productive members of society. It is every parent’s dream to see the day when her child puts on a graduation attire, walks up on stage, and earns that degree. These pandemic days, even a virtual graduation would suffice – after all, what can we do? Many families still display their children’s graduation picture and “diploma” – a piece of paper that proves one indeed graduated – in their homes. Indeed, it is a source of pride. For many parents, the success of their children is theirs, too. Now they can say they’ve done their job as providers, and they are finally ready to let their child out into the “real world” – whatever that is. It is especially significant, if not poignant, if the child graduates amid numerous setbacks. Some children obtain scholarships. Some become working students. Their parents work doubly, triply hard to finance their education and provide for all education-related needs. Unfortunately, not every child who steps into primary school manages to earn a college degree. For some families, nothing is more important than putting food on the table. Everything else is secondary. Thus,

children of school age are yanked out of their classrooms and forced into harsh realities early on in life. They need to help their parents eke out a living, or take care of younger siblings while their parents are out. Some are not able to finish school because of sickness. Instead of living a normal, carefree life as students, they have to deal with their medical issues and fight to survive at a young age. This includes those who suffer from mental health issues that make it difficult, if not impossible, for them to live as their classmates would.

Not finishing school is a lot more acceptable these days. Lying about it is another story. Others get married or have children at a young age, embracing a path that is immensely more challenging that getting a degree. Yet others feel as though formal education is not for them. They may be trying to find their place in the world, or may feel weighed down by the pressures put on them by society or by their families. They may already know what they want to pursue and feel that education would not necessarily increase their chance at success. In fact, some progressive companies no longer require a college degree for certain positions – just a set of skills and indications of resilience and agility. Some might be taking a while figuring

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Superspreader events

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UPERSPREADER events like class and family reunions, birthday parties and outings will be commonplace now amid declining COVID-19 infections. With over half of the population in Metro Manila vaccinated and the inoculation drive gaining traction in the provinces, Filipinos are being emboldened to get out of their homes and test the waters, so to speak. Nobody can blame the Filipinos for venturing out, visiting public parks and going into restaurants after months of being cooped up in their homes. Many of them have received protection from the vaccine and health authorities themselves have given the green light to participate in the reopening of the economy. The government may further downgrade the quarantine restrictions to Alert Level 2 in Metro Manila next month. About 86 percent of the target population of 70 percent in the capital region, or close to 7.8 million, have received vaccine jabs. A greater number of

people in the metropolis, thus, are expected to troop back to the malls and other public places, and ride on public transportation.

We are not yet out of the woods. The vaccine jabs, however, are not foolproof. A vaccinated person can still get infected, especially by the unvaccinated. The looser restrictions and superspreader events can result in a new COVID-19 spike if local government units or concerned government agencies

lower their guard. The reopening of the dolomite beach in Manila Bay is a case in point. About 8,000 Metro Manila residents flocked to the new tourist attraction on Oct. 17 when it was reopened to the public. The figure reached 65,000 on Sunday, including young children. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources, which oversees the beach project, clearly has been remiss on its job. There was no social distancing to speak of in the event due to the sheer number of people who visited the beach. Authorities and local government units should be reminded that the Philippines is not yet out of the woods yet, despite the positive COVID-19 data. No country for that matter can claim that it has won the battle against the virus. Vigilance, health protocols and the vaccine will remain the most effective armor against the pandemic.

Sara is not a political opportunist

FAME has a way of making opportunists of the newest of the new politicians. Take the case of Senator Grace Poe Llamanzares, the adopted daughter of the late local film star Fernando Poe Jr. (FPJ). FPJ ran for president in May 2004, but lost to re-electionist President Gloria Arroyo. Many voters believe that the election was rigged. Arroyo herself appeared on nationwide television to publicly admit and apologize for influencing an election commissioner during the campaign. In December 2004, FPJ died of a stroke, probably out of frustration. His death sealed his status as a Philippine icon. Before FPJ’s presidential run and in the two years following his demise, Grace Poe was virtually unheard of. She had resided abroad for some time, and had become a naturalized American citizen. Grace Poe entered the political scene in October 2010, when the newly elected President Noynoy Aquino appointed her the chief of the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board. In 2013, Grace Poe tried her luck and ran for senator, using campaign propaganda highlighting her being the daughter of FPJ. Sympathy votes from the electorate who believed that her dad FPJ was cheated in the 2004 polls landed her in first place. I remember voting for her out of sympathy for her late father. Alas! Landing first place in the senatorial election got to Grace Poe’s head. The political opportunist in her thought that if she could top the Senate race, then the presidency in 2016 should be a cinch — or so she thought. Grace Poe’s presidential run, however, was doomed from the start. Questions about her citizenship and her utter lack of practical political experience hounded her no end. Her flimsy campaign claim that the presidency is simply about being the mother of the nation, and her tacit admission about not knowing how to effectively deal with Chinese aggression in the West Philippine Sea, underscored her unsuitability for the presidency. She landed in third place, having lost to out how best to live their life. There are conventional measures of success. In generations past, one has to graduate, find a job, build savings, get married, have children, stay married – essentially in that order – to be deemed successful. Over the years, so long as one is not a burden to anybody else, and so long as one finds meaning and happiness in what one does and helps other people, one can be deemed successful. Getting a degree, getting married, having children, or staying married – these have become optional. It’s ok – no judgment, no pressure. There is, however, a minimum

Former Chief Justice Reynato S. Puno Anita F. Grefal Baldwin R. Felipe Edgar M. Valmorida

President Rodrigo Duterte. In 2019, Grace Poe sought re-election to the Senate and expected a repeat of her first place victory in 2013. Poe landed in second place, next to first placer and reelectionist Senator Cynthia Villar, who obtained 3 million more votes than Poe did. Midway in 2021, Grace Poe was obviously considering another run for the presidency, as seen in her many television commercials extolling her as a senator and as FPJ’s daughter. By August 2021, her commercials stopped running, which meant that her presidential ambition was not getting any public acceptance.

She is not like Poe and Moreno. Poe’s term in the Senate ends in 2025, and from all indications, her political roadmap will be leading nowhere after that. Another obvious political opportunist is Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso. Moreno was Manila’s vice mayor from 2007 to 2016, and lost in his senatorial run in 2016. In 2019, and to everyone’s surprise, Moreno defeated the then reelectionist Manila mayor, ex-President Joseph Estrada. One of the first projects of Moreno as the new mayor was to get rid of the sidewalk vendors along Recto Avenue in Divisoria. That highly publicized undertaking created a euphoria, which Moreno’s minions exploited to promote their boss, resulting in Moreno’s opportunistic ambition to become president in 2022. By the summer of 2021, Moreno saturated the major television programs with his endless commercials praising him and his perceived achievements as Manila mayor, and suggesting in the process that he should be president. Like Grace Poe before him, the political opportunist in Moreno is currently capitalizing on what he believes is his wide popularity. Unlike Poe, however, Moreno does not have a national constituency to his credit. Therefore, unless Moreno can duplicate President Duterte’s massive popular appeal in 2016, Moreno is in for a steep, uphill battle. There are many issues now being raised requirement for being a grownup – and that is coming to terms with what you have and have not accomplished. Recognizing the role of your past in shaping who you are today, and resolving to carve a future from the lessons of history. Not resenting others who take a road different from yours. Being kind, being genuine, and being honest in presenting who you are to the rest of the world. Dropping out of school is nothing to be ashamed of. Lying about it, however, to make yourself look better or sound smarter, is simply abominable.

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against Moreno, including the extent of his real estate acquisitions, alleged ghost employees at city hall, and his suspected close ties to oligarchs. Moreno has yet to explain who is paying for his costly television commercials, considering that his salary as city mayor is not enough to shoulder those expenses. Critics also score Moreno for declaring his candidacy for president, while astutely remaining in office as city mayor. They suspect Moreno will use his post as city helmsman to finance his campaign expenses. In sharp contrast to Poe and Moreno, Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte has not exploited her immense popularity as a catapult to the presidency. Right now, Sara is reluctant to run for national office, and if she were to have her way, she will turn down the clamor of the people for her to run for president. Unlike Poe and Moreno, Sara Duterte is not a political opportunist. For many, that is a good-enough reason why Sara should run for president, and win.

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Taiwan leader confirms small US troop presence

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RESIDENT Tsai Ing-wen has confirmed a small number of US troops are present in Taiwan to help with training, adding she had “faith” that the American military would defend the island in the event of a Chinese attack. Manila

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N OTICE Notice is hereby given that SAPPORO ICE AND COLD STORAGE CO., INC. is applying for registration with the Board of Investments (BOI) as New Operator of Cold Storage and Blast Freezing Facility to be located at National Road, Blumentritt, Murcia, Negros Occidental and with capacities, as follows, under Tier 1 of R.A. No. 11534, otherwise known as the Corporate Recovery and tax Incentives for Enterprises Act (“CREATE”), based on the 2020 Investment Priorities Plan as the transitional Strategic Investment Priority Plan under the said Act. • Cold storage - 630,720 pallets / year or 409,968, 000 kgs • Blast Freezing - 6,646 pallets/year or 4,320,000 kgs Any person with valid objection/s on the abovementioned project may file his/her objection in writing, under oath, with the BOI within three (3) days from the date of this publication/posting. (SGD.) RAQUEL B. ECHAGUE OIC-Director Resource-Based Industries Service (MS-OCT. 29, 2021)

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In an interview with CNN, Tsai described Taiwan as a regional “beacon” of democracy that is facing down a giant authoritarian neighbour as she warned that the threat from Beijing is growing “every day.” The presence of US troops was first confirmed to AFP and other media by a Pentagon official earlier this month. But Tsai’s comments are the first time a Taiwanese leader has publicly made such an admission since the last US garrison left in 1979 when Washington switched diplomatic recognition to Beijing. Asked how many US troops were in Taiwan, Tsai replied “not as

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6)

MINDANAO: Agusan Del Norte: City of Butuan, Buenavista; Agusan del Sur: Rosario, San Francisco, Trento, Bayugan, Santa Josefa, Prosperidad Compostela Valley:Monkayo; Davao del Norte: Santo Tomas, Braulio E. Dujali, Panabo, Tagum, Carmen, Island City of Samal; Davao del Sur: Santa Cruz, Bansalan, Davao City, Digos, Hagonoy. Sulop Davao de Oro:Montevista, Compostela, Nabunturan, Maco; Cotabato: Kidapawan, Makilala; South Cotabato: General Santos City, Polomolok; Bukidnon: Malaybalay, City of Valencia, Quezon, Don Carlos, Manolo Fortich, Baungon, Libona, Impasug-ong, Maramag, Kitaotao; Lanao Del Norte:Linamon, Baloi, City of Iligan; Misamis Oriental: Balingasag, Cagayan de Oro, Claveria, Talisayan, Manticao, Sugbongcogon, Medina, Kinoguitan, Binuangan, Balingoan, Naawan, Villanueva, City of El Salvador, Jasaan, Opol, Tagoloan, City of Gingoog, Lugait; Gitagum, Laguindingan, Libertad, Initao; Saranggani: Alabel Sultan Kudarat:City Of Tacurong

Via Lazada Mall: a. Open Lazada and search for DITO in the Lazada Mall (DITO Telecommunity) account or DITO SIM. b. Click on DITO SIM product in DITO’s shop in Lazada Mall. c. Go thru handset validation using the link displayed in the Product Description Section. d. Select the SIM type compatible exactly to your handset and click Buy Now. e. The promo package shall be delivered to the customer via Lazada partner courier and may be subject to a delivery fee. Delivery is subject to the terms and conditions of Lazada and their partner couriers. If you are unable to receive your order or received a damaged SIM card, you may reach out send an email to customerservice@dito.ph or send your concerns via DITO’s Facebook messenger or using the DITO App. You may also reach out to Lazada or its partner couriers pursuant to their terms and conditions. Via Shopee: a. Open Shopee and search for DITO in the Shopee Mall (DITO Telecommunity) account or DITO SIM. b. Click on DITO SIM product in DITO’s shop in Shopee. c. Select the SIM type compatible exactly to your handset and click Buy Now. d. The promo package shall be delivered to the customer via Shopee partner courier and may be subject to a delivery fee. Delivery is subject to the terms and conditions of Shopee and their partner couriers. If you are unable to receive your order or received a damaged SIM card, you may send an email to customerservice@dito.ph or send your concerns via DITO’s Facebook messenger or using the DITO App. You may also reach out to Shopee or its partner couriers pursuant to their terms and conditions.

7)

5.

Promo resubscription is allowed even if the current subscription is active. The remaining data and off-net minutes allocation from the previous subscription will be carried over to the latest subscription. Subscriber shall receive FREE 3GB Data for every DITO 199 promo purchase within the promo period.

6.

Once availed, the promo is non-refundable / non-replaceable / non-exchangeable. The promo must be availed and activated within 30 days from the date the DITO SIM was successfully delivered. The SIM card shall expire if not activated within “1” year from purchase.

Once availed, the promo is non-refundable / non-replaceable / nonexchangeable. Promo is only valid for the subscriber’s DITO compatible mobile phone where the purchased DITO SIM and Promo are installed.

7.

Promo cannot be used in conjunction with any unlimited promo offers, discount available and exclusive promo offers.

The promo cannot be used in conjunction with any unlimited promo offers, discount available and other exclusive promo offers.

8.

Promo cannot be converted to cash, credit, or other goods and services.

9.

By availing of the promo, the subscriber confirms that he/she has read, understood, and agreed to the promo mechanics, its terms, and conditions. Subscriber also agrees not to use the SIM and/or promo for illicit or illegal means.

How to Activate the Promo a. Insert the DITO SIM in the prescreened DITO compatible device or other DITO compatible devices. The 10GB high-speed data, on-net call, and on-net text promo shall be automatically enabled upon activation of the SIM Card. To activate the SIM card, subscribers may turn on their data, attempt a call or send an SMS. b. Subscribers will receive confirmation via SMS for the activation of the SIM card and the promo.

8)

Promo shall only be offered in the following Cities/ Municipalities: LUZON: NCR: Manila, Quezon City, Muntinlupa, Paranaque, Pasay, Taguig, Pateros, Makati, Pasig, Mandaluyong, San Juan, Caloocan, Malabon, Navotas, Valenzuela, Marikina, Las Pinas; Pangasinan: Basista, Bayambang, Binmaley,Dagupan, Manaoag, Mangatarem, San Manuel, San Carlos City, Lingayen (Capital), San Nicolas, Alaminos, Bolinao, Urdaneta, Urbiztondo, Bani, Bugallon, Mangaldan, Laoac, Dasol, Aguilar, Bautista, Binalonan, San Jacinto, Tayug, Santa Barbara, Malasiqui, Mapandan; Bulacan: Pandi, San Jose del Monte, Malolos, Meycauayan, Marilao, Bocaue, Hagonoy, Bulacan, Plaridel, Baliuag, Guiguinto, Bustos, San Ildefonso, San Miguel, Santa Maria, San Rafael, Pulilan, Norzagaray, Balagtas (Bigaa), Angat Nueva Ecija: Cabiao, Llanera, Palayan City, Santa Rosa, Santo Domingo Science City of Munoz, Talavera, Cabanatuan, Gapan City, San Leonardo, San Jose, General Mamerto Natividad, Rizal, Zaragoza, General Tinio (Papaya), Licab, Jaen, Quezon, Lupao, San Isidro, Guimba Nueva Vizcaya: Dupax del Norte Pampanga: Angeles, Bacolor; Candaba, Guagua, Lubao, Mabalacat, Magalang Mexico, San Fernando, San Simon, Santa Rita, Santa Ana, Labrador, San Fabian, Infanta, Sual Tarlac: Capas, Tarlac City, Concepcion, Gerona, La Paz, Mayantoc, Moncada, Pura, Ramos, San Clemente, San Manuel, Victoria, Camiling, Paniqui; Zambales: Olongapo, Subic, San Marcelino, San Narciso, Santa Cruz; La Union: Rosario Bataan: Balanga, Dinalupihan, Orani, Samal, Abucay; Albay: Camalig, City Of Ligao, Daraga (Locsin), Legazpi City (Capital), Malilipot,Oas, Polangui, Libon, Malinao, Guinobatan; Batangas: Alitagtag, Bauan, Cuenca, San Jose,Ibaan, Batangas City, Malvar, MataasnaKahoy, San Pascual, Santo Tomas, Lipa City, Talisay, Tanauan City, Taysan, Balete, Padre Garcia, San Juan, Balayan, Calaca, San Luis, Taal, Agoncillo, San Nicolas, Lian, Calatagan, Tuy, Laurel, Lobo Cavite: Kawit, Bacoor, Imus, Tagaytay City, Silang, Dasmarinas, Carmona, Amadeo, Rosario, Mendez, Indang, Alfonso, General Trias, TreceMartirez, Tanza, Magallanes. Naic, Maragondon, Noveleta, Ternate Laguna: Bay, San Pedro, Sta Rosa, Binan, Cabuyao, Los Banos, Calamba City, Victoria, Calauan, Alaminos, San Pablo, Majayjay, Luisiana, Rizal, Nagcarlan; Quezon: Candelaria, City of Tayabas, Pagbilao, San Antonio, Sariaya, Valencia, Lucban, Lucena City (Capital), Pitogo, Unisan, Lopez, Rizal: Antipolo, Cainta, Taytay; Sorsogon: City of Sorsogon (Capital); Irosin, Casiguran, Castilla Camarines Norte: Basud, Daet (Capital); Talisay, Vinzons; Camarines Sur: Baao, Bato, Bombon, Bula, Canaman, Iriga City, Libmanan, Naga City, Ocampo, Pamplona, Pili (Capital), Sagnay, San Jose; Sipocot, Tigaon, Camaligan, Magarao, Cabusao, Lagonoy, Milaor, Calabanga VISAYAS: Aklan: NabasIbajay, Altavas Cebu: Toledo City, Balamban, Barili, Carcar, Cebu City, Compostela, Consolacion, Cordova, Danao, Liloan, Mandaue, Minglanilla, Naga, San Fernando, LapuLapu, Dumanjug, Talisay, Moalboal, Bogo City, San Remigio, Sogod, Alcantara, Santander, Ginatilan, Daanbantayan, Aloguinsan Rona, Sibonga, Boljoon, Malabuyoc Negros Occidental: Bacolod City, Kabankalan, Pulupandan, Silay City, Valladolid, Binalbagan, Murcia, Enrique B. Magalona (Saravia), Bago City; Iloilo: Iloilo City, Oton, Kalibo Negros Oriental: Dumaguete, Valencia, Sibulan, City of Tanjay Capiz: Roxas City

MINDANAO: Agusan Del Norte: City of Butuan, Buenavista; Agusan del Sur: Rosario, San Francisco, Trento, Bayugan, Santa Josefa, Prosperidad; Compostela Valley: Monkayo; Davao del Norte: Santo Tomas, Braulio E. Dujali, Panabo, Tagum, Carmen, Island City of Samal; Davao del Sur: Santa Cruz, Bansalan, Davao City, Digos, Hagonoy, Sulop; Davao de Oro: Montevista, Compostela, Nabunturan, Maco; Cotabato: Kidapawan, Makilala; South Cotabato: General Santos City, Polomolok; Bukidnon: Malaybalay, City of Valencia, Quezon, Don Carlos, Manolo Fortich, Baungon, Libona, Impasug-ong, Maramag; Kitaotao; Lanao Del Norte: Linamon, Baloi, City of Iligan; Misamis Oriental: Balingasag, Cagayan de Oro, Claveria, Talisayan, Manticao, Sugbongcogon, Medina, Kinoguitan, Binuangan, Balingoan, Naawan, Villanueva, City of El Salvador, Jasaan, Opol, Tagoloan, City of Gingoog, Lugait; Gitagum, Laguindingan, Libertad, Initao; Saranggani: Alabel Sultan Kudarat: City Of Tacurong

9)

Promo cannot be used in conjunction with any unlimited promo offers, discount available and exclusive promo offers.

10) The promo cannot be converted to cash, credit, or other goods and services of DITO. 11) By availing of the promo, the subscriber confirms that he/she has read, understood, and agrees to the promo mechanics, its terms and conditions, the terms and conditions of the SIM card. Subscriber also agrees not to use the SIM card and/or promo for illicit or illegal means. 12) For any concerns and/or inquiries regarding the promo, information may be sent to customerservice@dito.ph. All matters and disputes will be subject to the final decision of DITO Telecommunity. All decisions made by DITO Telecommunity pertaining to the promo will be deemed final and irrevocable, with the prior concurrence of DTI. Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-124998 Series of 2021

(MS-OCT. 29, 2021)

Repurchase and/or reactivation DITO 199 promo subscriptions (priced at Php199) in the following channels: Lazada, WeChat, AliPay, and moneygment using an existing activated DITO SIM during the promo period will entitle subscribers to receive 3GB Bonus Data open data valid for 15 days counted from receipt of the free 3GB. The 3GB Bonus Data shall be received within the next day from the purchase of DITO 199.

Promo shall only be offered in the following cities and municipalities in the following:

9)

12) For any concerns and/or inquiries regarding the promo, information may be sent to customerservice@dito.ph. All matters and disputes will be subject to the final decision of DITO Telecommunity. All decisions made by DITO Telecommunity pertaining to the promo will be deemed final and irrevocable, with the prior concurrence of DTI.

2.

How to buy the “10GB Data” package Via the DITO Website, DITO App and DITO Facebook account:

Once availed, the DITO Starter Pack is non-refundable / non-replaceable / nonexchangeable. Promo is only valid for the subscriber’s DITO compatible mobile phone where the purchased DITO SIM and Promo are installed.

11) By availing of the promo, the subscriber confirms that he/she has read, understood, and agreed to the promo mechanics, its terms, and conditions. Subscriber also agrees not to use the SIM and/or promo for illicit or illegal means.

Promo period is from November 1-7, 2021.

Prerequisites:

8)

10) Promo cannot be converted to cash, credit, or other goods and services.

1.

VISAYAS: Aklan : Nabas Ibajay, Altayas; Capiz: Roxas City (Capital) Cebu: Toledo City, Balamban, Barili, Carcar, Cebu City, Compostela, Consolacion, Cordova, Danao, Liloan, Mandaue, Minglanilla, Naga, San Fernando, Lapu Lapu, Dumanjug, Talisay, Moalboal, Bogo City, San Remigio, Sogod, Alcantara, Santander, Ginatilan, Daanbantayan, Aloguinsan, Ronda, Sibonga Boljoon, Malabuyoc ; Iloilo: Iloilo City, Oton, Kalibo (Capital); Negros Occidental: Bacolod City, Kabankalan, Pulupandan, Silay City, Valladolid, Binalbagan, Murcia, Enrique B. Magalona (Saravia), Bago City; Negros Oriental: Dumaguete, Valencia, Sibulan, City of Tanjay

VISAYAS: Aklan : Nabas Ibajay, Altayas; Capiz: Roxas City (Capital) Cebu: Toledo City, Balamban, Barili, Carcar, Cebu City, Compostela, Consolacion, Cordova, Danao, Liloan, Mandaue, Minglanilla, Naga, San Fernando, Lapu Lapu, Dumanjug, Talisay, Moalboal, Bogo City, San Remigio, Sogod, Alcantara, Santander, Ginatilan, Daanbantayan, Aloguinsan, Ronda, Sibonga Boljoon, Malabuyoc ; Iloilo: Iloilo City, Oton, Kalibo (Capital); Negros Occidental: Bacolod City, Kabankalan, Pulupandan, Silay City, Valladolid, Binalbagan, Murcia, Enrique B. Magalona (Saravia), Bago City; Negros Oriental: Dumaguete, Valencia, Sibulan, City of Tanjay MINDANAO: Agusan Del Norte: City of Butuan, Buenavista; Agusan del Sur: Rosario, San Francisco, Trento, Bayugan, Santa Josefa, Prosperidad; Compostela Valley: Monkayo; Davao del Norte: Santo Tomas, Braulio E. Dujali, Panabo, Tagum, Carmen, Island City of Samal; Davao del Sur: Santa Cruz, Bansalan, Davao City, Digos, Hagonoy, Sulop; Davao de Oro: Montevista, Compostela, Nabunturan, Maco; Cotabato: Kidapawan, Makilala; South Cotabato: General Santos City, Polomolok; Bukidnon: Malaybalay, City of Valencia, Quezon, Don Carlos, Manolo Fortich, Baungon, Libona, Impasug-ong, Maramag; Kitaotao; Lanao Del Norte: Linamon, Baloi, City of Iligan; Misamis Oriental: Balingasag, Cagayan de Oro, Claveria, Talisayan, Manticao, Sugbongcogon, Medina, Kinoguitan, Binuangan, Balingoan, Naawan, Villanueva, City of El Salvador, Jasaan, Opol, Tagoloan, City of Gingoog, Lugait; Gitagum, Laguindingan, Libertad, Initao; Saranggani: Alabel Sultan Kudarat: City Of Tacurong

PROMO MECHANICS:

LUZON: NCR: Manila, Quezon City, Muntinlupa, Paranaque, Pasay, Taguig, Pateros, Makati, Pasig, Mandaluyong, San Juan, Caloocan, Malabon, Navotas, Valenzuela, Marikina, Las Pinas; Pangasinan: Basista, Bayambang, Binmaley, Dagupan, Manaoag, Mangatarem, San Manuel, San Carlos City, Lingayen (Capital), San Nicolas, Alaminos, Bolinao, Urdaneta, Urbiztondo, Bani, Bugallon, Mangaldan, Laoac, Dasol, Aguilar, Bautista, Binalonan, San Jacinto, Tayug, Santa Barbara, Malasiqui, Labrador, San Fabian, Infanta, Sual, Mapandan; La Union: Rosario; Bulacan: Pandi, San Jose del Monte, Malolos, Meycauayan, Marilao, Bocaue, Hagonoy, Bulacan, Plaridel, Baliuag, Guiguinto, Bustos, San Ildefonso, San Miguel, Santa Maria, San Rafael, Pulilan, Norzagaray, Balagtas (Bigaa), Angat; Nueva Ecija: Cabiao, Llanera, Palayan City, Santa Rosa, Santo Domingo Science City of Munoz, Talavera, Cabanatuan, Gapan City, San Leonardo, San Jose, General Mamerto Natividad, Rizal, Zaragoza, General Tinio (Papaya), Licab, Jaen, Quezon, Lupao, San Isidro, Guimba; Nueva Vizcaya: Dupax del Norte Pampanga: Angeles, Bacolor; Candaba, Guagua, Lubao, Mabalacat, Magalang Mexico, San Fernando, , San Simon, Santa Rita, Santa Ana;, Tarlac: Capas, Tarlac City, Concepcion, Gerona, La Paz, Mayantoc, Moncada ,Pura, Ramos, San Clemente, San Manuel, Victoria, Camiling, Paniqui; Zambales: Olongapo, Subic, San Marcelino,San Narciso; Santa Cruz, ; Bataan: Balanga, Dinalupihan, Orani, Samal, Abucay; Albay: Camalig, City Of Ligao, Daraga (Locsin), Legazpi City (Capital), Malilipot,Oas, Polangui, Libon, Malinao, Guinobatan; Batangas: Alitagtag, Bauan, Cuenca, San Jose, Ibaan, Batangas City, Malvar, Mataas na Kahoy, San Pascual, Santo Tomas, Lipa City, Talisay, Tanauan City, Taysan, Balete, Padre Garcia, San Juan, Balayan, Calaca, San Luis, Taal, Agoncillo, San Nicolas, Lian, Calatagan, Tuy, Laurel, Lobo; Camarines Norte: Basud, Daet (Capital); Talisay, Vinzons; Camarines Sur: Baao, Bato, Bombon, Bula, Canaman, Iriga City, Libmanan, Naga City, Ocampo, Pamplona, Pili (Capital), Sagnay, San Jose; Sipocot, Tigaon, Camaligan, Magarao, Cabusao, Lagonoy, Milaor, Calabanga; Cavite: Kawit, Bacoor, Imus, Tagaytay City, Silang, Dasmarinas, Carmona, Amadeo, Rosario, Mendez, Indang, Alfonso, General Trias, Trece Martirez, Tanza, Magallanes. Naic, Maragondon, Noveleta, Ternate; Laguna: Bay, San Pedro, Sta Rosa, Binan, Cabuyao, Los Banos, Calamba City, Victoria, Calauan, Alaminos, San Pablo, Majayjay, Luisiana, Rizal, Nagcarlan; Quezon: Candelaria, City of Tayabas, Pagbilao, San Antonio, Sariaya, Valencia, Lucban, Lucena City (Capital), Pitogo, Unisan, Lopezalnbay; Rizal: Antipolo, Cainta, Taytay; Sorsogon: City of Sorsogon (Capital); Irosin, Casiguran, Castilla;

Via Lazada Mall: a. Open Lazada and search for DITO in the Lazada Mall (DITO Telecommunity) account or DITO SIM. b. Click on DITO SIM product in DITO’s shop in Lazada Mall. c. Go thru handset validation using the link displayed in the Product Description Section. d. Select the SIM type compatible exactly to your handset and click Buy Now. e. The promo package shall be delivered to the customer via Lazada partner courier and may be subject to a delivery fee. Delivery is subject to the terms and conditions of Lazada and their partner couriers. If you are unable to receive your order or received a damaged SIM card, you may reach out send an email to customerservice@dito.ph or send your concerns via DITO’s Facebook messenger or using the DITO App. You may also reach out to Lazada or its partner couriers pursuant to their terms and conditions.

6)

In accordance with the NTC guidelines, here’s the mechanics for the DITO RESUBSCRIPTION PROMO:

a. Go to DITO’s Promo Page at (https://dito.ph/promo-page.html) or DITO’s Facebook page at (https://www.facebook.com/DITO.ph/) or Go to “Purchase your DITO SIM” in the DITO App login page. Scan the promo QR code or access the promo link to access the DITO Online Store. In the DITO Online Store or DITO App, check if your handset is compatible and location covered by the promo. Read, understand, and accept the terms and condition of the SIM card, Welcome Offer Promo, and privacy policy. b. Purchase the “10GB Data” package. Customers can pay using credit/debit cards and various e-wallet as indicated in the online store. Customers will be asked to input their name, email address, contact number and delivery address where the DITO packaged will be delivered, delivery is valid within the promo areas only. c. The promo package shall be delivered to the customer via third-party courier and may be subject to a delivery fee. Delivery schedule may be subject to change by the third-party couriers depending on its terms and conditions or force majeure. If you are unable to receive your order or received a damaged SIM card, you may reach out send an email to customerservice@dito.ph or send your concerns via DITO’s Facebook messenger or using the DITO App.

How to avail the DITO Starter Pack: Via DITO App: Log-in on the DITO App. Go to the App Home Page before Subscriber must click on the confirmation button to proceed with the purchase of the offer. Subscriber will receive confirmation via APP and SMS.

NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC

10GB Data for 30 days upon activation of the promo. Unlimited DITO-to-DITO calls for 30 days upon activation of the promo. Unlimited DITO-to-DITO SMS for 30 days upon activation of the promo. 300 minutes of calls to other mobile networks Unlimited texts to other mobile networks

a. Only those with device compatible with the DITO SIM card and has passed the location validation may avail the promo. Device and location compatibility shall be assessed during the online ordering process. The list of available devices shall be available at DITO’s website (https://www.dito.ph/). Network locked phones, aside from DITO’s, and phones blocked by government agencies shall be considered as noncompatible devices. DITO shall have the sole discretion on whether a particular device is compatible with DITO SIM cards. In case of dispute on device compatibility, the list, and records of DITO shall prevail. b. Promo is only valid for the subscriber’s DITO compatible mobile phone where the purchased DITO SIM and Promo are installed.

How to download and install DITO App:

a. b. c.

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

The promo is priced at P99 and is inclusive of the following: a. b. c. d. e.

Download and install the DITO App via the link included in the activation SMS. The activation SMS will be sent to the SUBSCRIBER after activation of the SIM card. (note – use of the DITO App will not use or require any data allocation from the subscriber, free WiFi access shall be available in the DITO’s partner stores for application downloading and promo activation purposes, subscribers may also use the 1 GB data allocation included with the SIM card to download and activate the promo) Create and Log-in on the DITO App – initial password will be given via SMS. 5)

Promo will be available starting from October 29, 2021 – January 31,2022 in the following additional areas as approved by DTI-FTEB:

The promo must be activated within the promo period Promos activated after the promo period shall not take effect.

Balance of the 1GB, if any, shall be automatically extended following the validity period of the 2GB data. Prerequisites: a.

pumpkins during ‘The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze’ at Van Cortlandt Manor in Crotonon-Hudson, New York, ahead of Halloween. AFP

Tarlac Camiling Tarlac Paniqui Pangasinan Mapandan La Union Rosario Zambales San Marcelino Zambales San Narciso Zambales Santa Cruz Quezon Lopez Albay Guinobatan Cebu Malabuyoc Agusan Del Norte Buenavista Bukidnon Kitaotao

* 3)

HALLOWEEN TREAT. People admire a canopy made of illuminated carved

NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC

Tarlac Camiling Tarlac Paniqui Pangasinan Mapandan La Union Rosario Zambales San Marcelino Zambales San Narciso Zambales Santa Cruz Quezon Lopez Albay Guinobatan Cebu Malabuyoc Agusan Del Norte Buenavista Bukidnon Kitaotao 2)

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

Promo Mechanics: 1)

1)

many as people thought.” “We have a wide range of cooperation with the US aiming at increasing our defense capability,” she added. When asked if she was confident that the United States would help defend Taiwan if necessary against China, Tsai replied: “I do have faith.” Speaking to lawmakers on Thursday, Taiwan’s defense minister Chiu Kuo-cheng said US and Taiwanese troops have long had contacts with each other. “We have personnel exchanges and they (US soldiers) would be here for military cooperation, but this is different, according to my definition, from having ‘troops stationed’ here,” Chiu said. Authoritarian China regards selfruled Taiwan as its own territory and has vowed to one day seize the island, by force if needed. AFP

(MS-OCT. 29, 2021)

10. For any concerns and/or inquiries regarding the promo, information may be sent to customerservice@dito.ph. All matters and disputes will be subject to the final decision of DITO Telecommunity. All decisions made by DITO Telecommunity pertaining to the promo will be deemed final and irrevocable, with the prior concurrence of DTI. (MS-OCT. 29, 2021)

News

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2021 mst.daydesk@gmail.com

A7

US, PCG in joint training on BRP Gabriela Silang By Rey E. Requejo

T

HE United States civilian military support unit has conducted a three-day training with the crew and ofﬁcers of BRP Gabriela Silang of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) purportedly to improve the capability of the PCG’s biggest ship in responding to medical emergencies situations at sea. In a statement, the US Embassy in the Philippines said that from Oct. 21 to 24, the Civilian Military Support ElementPhilippines (CMSE-PHL) held a tactical combat casualty care training with the ofﬁcers and crew of the PCG’s BRP Gabri-

TEAM PHILIPPINES. Former Tourism Secretary Wanda Tulfo-Teo

accepts her appointment as chairman for the Tourism Educators and Movers (TEAM) Philippines for the entire Mindanao. She received the appointment from Robert Lim Joseph, TEAM Philippines national president.

Manila

Standard

TODAY

1)

By Vito Barcelo THE Bureau of Immigration (BI) ordered the deportation of a Taiwanese national long wanted by authorities in Taipei for drug trafﬁcking and possession of guns and other deadly weapons. BI Commissioner Jaime Morente said 45-year-old Yang Chuan Yi will be expelled following his arrest in Tanza, Cavite by operatives from the bureau’s fugitive search unit in coordination with the Tanza Municipal Police Station. Morente said the arresting agents were armed with a warrant of deportation which was issued by the BI board of commissioners in August 2016 along with the order for his summary deportation. Yang, however, eluded arrest until informants tipped the BI on his whereabouts. According to BI-FSU acting chief Rendell Ryan Sy, the Tai-

2)

3GB Data for 15 days upon activation of the promo. Unlimited DITO-to-DITO calls for 15 days upon activation of the promo. Unlimited DITO-to-DITO SMS for 15 days upon activation of the promo. 100 minutes of calls to other mobile networks for 15 days upon activation of the promo. e. Unlimited texts to other mobile networks for 15 days upon activation of the promo. 3)

3)

How to download and install DITO App: 4)

How to avail the promo:

Own Channels Via DITO App: 5)

Via DITO Experience Stores, SMS 185

The promo can also be availed through the following partners and channels:

6)

MLhuillier Load Central Paymaya Telepreneur LoadManna PDMN (WeChat, Alipay) Ayannah (Tambunting, Panalo Express, Brigada, Sendah Direct, GoVIP Center) Gcash Lazada Moneygment

Promo shall only be offered in the following areas: LUZON: NCR: Manila, Quezon City, Muntinlupa, Paranaque, Pasay, Taguig, Pateros, Makati, Pasig, Mandaluyong, San Juan, Caloocan, Malabon, Navotas, Valenzuela, Marikina, Las Pinas; Pangasinan: Basista, Bayambang, Binmaley, Dagupan, Manaoag, Mangatarem, San Manuel, San Carlos City, Lingayen (Capital), San Nicolas, Alaminos, Bolinao, Urdaneta, Urbiztondo, Bani, Bugallon, Mangaldan, Laoac, Dasol, Aguilar, Bautista, Binalonan, San Jacinto, Tayug, Santa Barbara, Malasiqui, Labrador, San Fabian, Infanta, Sual, Mapandan; La Union: Rosario; Bulacan: Pandi, San Jose del Monte, Malolos, Meycauayan, Marilao, Bocaue, Hagonoy, Bulacan, Plaridel, Baliuag, Guiguinto, Bustos, San Ildefonso, San Miguel, Santa Maria, San Rafael, Pulilan, Norzagaray, Balagtas (Bigaa), Angat; Nueva Ecija: Cabiao, Llanera, Palayan City, Santa Rosa, Santo Domingo Science City of Munoz, Talavera, Cabanatuan, Gapan City, San Leonardo, San Jose, General Mamerto Natividad, Rizal, Zaragoza, General Tinio (Papaya), Licab, Jaen, Quezon, Lupao, San Isidro, Guimba; Nueva Vizcaya: Dupax del Norte Pampanga: Angeles, Bacolor; Candaba, Guagua, Lubao, Mabalacat, Magalang Mexico, San Fernando, , San Simon, Santa Rita, Santa Ana;, Tarlac: Capas, Tarlac City, Concepcion, Gerona, La Paz, Mayantoc, Moncada ,Pura, Ramos, San Clemente, San Manuel, Victoria, Camiling, Paniqui; Zambales: Olongapo, Subic, San Marcelino,San Narciso; Santa Cruz, ; Bataan: Balanga, Dinalupihan, Orani, Samal, Abucay; Albay: Camalig, City Of Ligao, Daraga (Locsin), Legazpi City (Capital), Malilipot,Oas, Polangui, Libon, Malinao, Guinobatan; Batangas: Alitagtag, Bauan, Cuenca, San Jose, Ibaan, Batangas City, Malvar, Mataas na Kahoy, San Pascual, Santo Tomas, Lipa City, Talisay, Tanauan City, Taysan, Balete, Padre Garcia, San Juan, Balayan, Calaca, San Luis, Taal, Agoncillo, San Nicolas, Lian, Calatagan, Tuy, Laurel, Lobo; Camarines Norte: Basud, Daet (Capital); Talisay, Vinzons; Camarines Sur: Baao, Bato, Bombon, Bula, Canaman, Iriga City, Libmanan, Naga City, Ocampo, Pamplona, Pili (Capital), Sagnay, San Jose; Sipocot, Tigaon, Camaligan, Magarao, Cabusao, Lagonoy, Milaor, Calabanga; Cavite: Kawit, Bacoor, Imus, Tagaytay City, Silang, Dasmarinas, Carmona, Amadeo, Rosario, Mendez, Indang, Alfonso, General Trias, Trece Martirez, Tanza, Magallanes. Naic, Maragondon, Noveleta, Ternate; Laguna: Bay, San Pedro, Sta Rosa, Binan, Cabuyao, Los Banos, Calamba City, Victoria, Calauan, Alaminos, San Pablo, Majayjay, Luisiana, Rizal, Nagcarlan; Quezon: Candelaria, City of Tayabas, Pagbilao, San Antonio, Sariaya, Valencia, Lucban, Lucena City (Capital), Pitogo, Unisan, Lopezalnbay; Rizal: Antipolo, Cainta, Taytay; Sorsogon: City of Sorsogon (Capital); Irosin, Casiguran, Castilla;

NEA urged to ensure power in Baguio By Macon Ramos-Araneta

7)

Promo resubscription is allowed even if the current subscription is active. The remaining data and off-net minutes allocation from the previous subscription will be carried over to the latest subscription.

8)

Once availed, the promo is non-refundable / non-replaceable / non-exchangeable. Promo is only valid for the subscriber’s DITO compatible mobile phone where the purchased DITO SIM and Promo are installed.

9)

Promo cannot be used in conjunction with any unlimited promo offers, discount available and exclusive promo offers.

10) Promo cannot be converted to cash, credit, or other goods and services. 11) By availing of the promo, the subscriber confirms that he/she has read, understood, and agreed to the promo mechanics, its terms, and conditions. Subscriber also agrees not to use the SIM and/or promo for illicit or illegal means. 12) For any concerns and/or inquiries regarding the promo, information may be sent to customerservice@dito.ph. All matters and disputes will be subject to the final decision of DITO Telecommunity. All decisions made by DITO Telecommunity pertaining to the promo will be deemed final and irrevocable, with the prior concurrence of DTI.

Promo shall only be offered in the following new cities and municipalities in the following:

VISAYAS: Aklan : Nabas Ibajay, Altayas; Capiz: Roxas City (Capital) Cebu: Toledo City, Balamban, Barili, Carcar, Cebu City, Compostela, Consolacion, Cordova, Danao, Liloan, Mandaue, Minglanilla, Naga, San Fernando, Lapu Lapu, Dumanjug, Talisay, Moalboal, Bogo City, San Remigio, Sogod, Alcantara, Santander, Ginatilan, Daanbantayan, Aloguinsan, Ronda, Sibonga Boljoon, Malabuyoc ; Iloilo: Iloilo City, Oton, Kalibo (Capital); Negros Occidental: Bacolod City, Kabankalan, Pulupandan, Silay City, Valladolid, Binalbagan, Murcia, Enrique B. Magalona (Saravia), Bago City; Negros Oriental: Dumaguete, Valencia, Sibulan, City of Tanjay MINDANAO: Agusan Del Norte: City of Butuan, Buenavista; Agusan del Sur: Rosario, San Francisco, Trento, Bayugan, Santa Josefa, Prosperidad; Compostela Valley: Monkayo; Davao del Norte: Santo Tomas, Braulio E. Dujali, Panabo, Tagum, Carmen, Island City of Samal; Davao del Sur: Santa Cruz, Bansalan, Davao City, Digos, Hagonoy, Sulop; Davao de Oro: Montevista, Compostela, Nabunturan, Maco; Cotabato: Kidapawan, Makilala; South Cotabato: General Santos City, Polomolok; Bukidnon: Malaybalay, City of Valencia, Quezon, Don Carlos, Manolo Fortich, Baungon, Libona, Impasug-ong, Maramag; Kitaotao; Lanao Del Norte: Linamon, Baloi, City of Iligan; Misamis Oriental: Balingasag, Cagayan de Oro, Claveria, Talisayan, Manticao, Sugbongcogon, Medina, Kinoguitan, Binuangan, Balingoan, Naawan, Villanueva, City of El Salvador, Jasaan, Opol, Tagoloan, City of Gingoog, Lugait; Gitagum, Laguindingan, Libertad, Initao; Saranggani: Alabel Sultan Kudarat: City Of Tacurong 6)

Via Lazada Mall: a. Open Lazada and search for DITO in the Lazada Mall (DITO Telecommunity) account or DITO SIM. b. Click on DITO SIM product in DITO’s shop in Lazada Mall. c. Go thru handset validation using the link displayed in the Product Description Section. d. Select the SIM type compatible exactly to your handset and click Buy Now. e. The promo package shall be delivered to the customer via Lazada partner courier and may be subject to a delivery fee. Delivery is subject to the terms and conditions of Lazada and their partner couriers. If you are unable to receive your order or received a damaged SIM card, you may reach out send an email to customerservice@dito.ph or send your concerns via DITO’s Facebook messenger or using the DITO App. You may also reach out to Lazada or its partner couriers pursuant to their terms and conditions.

VISAYAS: Aklan : Nabas Ibajay, Altayas; Capiz: Roxas City (Capital) Cebu: Toledo City, Balamban, Barili, Carcar, Cebu City, Compostela, Consolacion, Cordova, Danao, Liloan, Mandaue, Minglanilla, Naga, San Fernando, Lapu Lapu, Dumanjug, Talisay, Moalboal, Bogo City, San Remigio, Sogod, Alcantara, Santander, Ginatilan, Daanbantayan, Aloguinsan, Ronda, Sibonga Boljoon, Malabuyoc ; Iloilo: Iloilo City, Oton, Kalibo (Capital); Negros Occidental: Bacolod City, Kabankalan, Pulupandan, Silay City, Valladolid, Binalbagan, Murcia, Enrique B. Magalona (Saravia), Bago City; Negros Oriental: Dumaguete, Valencia, Sibulan, City of Tanjay MINDANAO: Agusan Del Norte: City of Butuan, Buenavista; Agusan del Sur: Rosario, San Francisco, Trento, Bayugan, Santa Josefa, Prosperidad; Compostela Valley: Monkayo; Davao del Norte: Santo Tomas, Braulio E. Dujali, Panabo, Tagum, Carmen, Island City of Samal; Davao del Sur: Santa Cruz, Bansalan, Davao City, Digos, Hagonoy, Sulop; Davao de Oro: Montevista, Compostela, Nabunturan, Maco; Cotabato: Kidapawan, Makilala; South Cotabato: General Santos City, Polomolok; Bukidnon: Malaybalay, City of Valencia, Quezon, Don Carlos, Manolo Fortich, Baungon, Libona, Impasug-ong, Maramag; Kitaotao; Lanao Del Norte: Linamon, Baloi, City of Iligan; Misamis Oriental: Balingasag, Cagayan de Oro, Claveria, Talisayan, Manticao, Sugbongcogon, Medina, Kinoguitan, Binuangan, Balingoan, Naawan, Villanueva, City of El Salvador, Jasaan, Opol, Tagoloan, City of Gingoog, Lugait; Gitagum, Laguindingan, Libertad, Initao; Saranggani: Alabel Sultan Kudarat: City Of Tacurong

How to buy the “25GB Data” package Via the DITO Website and DITO Facebook account:

LUZON: NCR: Manila, Quezon City, Muntinlupa, Paranaque, Pasay, Taguig, Pateros, Makati, Pasig, Mandaluyong, San Juan, Caloocan, Malabon, Navotas, Valenzuela, Marikina, Las Pinas; Pangasinan: Basista, Bayambang, Binmaley, Dagupan, Manaoag, Mangatarem, San Manuel, San Carlos City, Lingayen (Capital), San Nicolas, Alaminos, Bolinao, Urdaneta, Urbiztondo, Bani, Bugallon, Mangaldan, Laoac, Dasol, Aguilar, Bautista, Binalonan, San Jacinto, Tayug, Santa Barbara, Malasiqui, Labrador, San Fabian, Infanta, Sual, Mapandan; La Union: Rosario; Bulacan: Pandi, San Jose del Monte, Malolos, Meycauayan, Marilao, Bocaue, Hagonoy, Bulacan, Plaridel, Baliuag, Guiguinto, Bustos, San Ildefonso, San Miguel, Santa Maria, San Rafael, Pulilan, Norzagaray, Balagtas (Bigaa), Angat; Nueva Ecija: Cabiao, Llanera, Palayan City, Santa Rosa, Santo Domingo Science City of Munoz, Talavera, Cabanatuan, Gapan City, San Leonardo, San Jose, General Mamerto Natividad, Rizal, Zaragoza, General Tinio (Papaya), Licab, Jaen, Quezon, Lupao, San Isidro, Guimba; Nueva Vizcaya: Dupax del Norte Pampanga: Angeles, Bacolor; Candaba, Guagua, Lubao, Mabalacat, Magalang Mexico, San Fernando, , San Simon, Santa Rita, Santa Ana;, Tarlac: Capas, Tarlac City, Concepcion, Gerona, La Paz, Mayantoc, Moncada ,Pura, Ramos, San Clemente, San Manuel, Victoria, Camiling, Paniqui; Zambales: Olongapo, Subic, San Marcelino,San Narciso; Santa Cruz, ; Bataan: Balanga, Dinalupihan, Orani, Samal, Abucay; Albay: Camalig, City Of Ligao, Daraga (Locsin), Legazpi City (Capital), Malilipot,Oas, Polangui, Libon, Malinao, Guinobatan; Batangas: Alitagtag, Bauan, Cuenca, San Jose, Ibaan, Batangas City, Malvar, Mataas na Kahoy, San Pascual, Santo Tomas, Lipa City, Talisay, Tanauan City, Taysan, Balete, Padre Garcia, San Juan, Balayan, Calaca, San Luis, Taal, Agoncillo, San Nicolas, Lian, Calatagan, Tuy, Laurel, Lobo; Camarines Norte: Basud, Daet (Capital); Talisay, Vinzons; Camarines Sur: Baao, Bato, Bombon, Bula, Canaman, Iriga City, Libmanan, Naga City, Ocampo, Pamplona, Pili (Capital), Sagnay, San Jose; Sipocot, Tigaon, Camaligan, Magarao, Cabusao, Lagonoy, Milaor, Calabanga; Cavite: Kawit, Bacoor, Imus, Tagaytay City, Silang, Dasmarinas, Carmona, Amadeo, Rosario, Mendez, Indang, Alfonso, General Trias, Trece Martirez, Tanza, Magallanes. Naic, Maragondon, Noveleta, Ternate; Laguna: Bay, San Pedro, Sta Rosa, Binan, Cabuyao, Los Banos, Calamba City, Victoria, Calauan, Alaminos, San Pablo, Majayjay, Luisiana, Rizal, Nagcarlan; Quezon: Candelaria, City of Tayabas, Pagbilao, San Antonio, Sariaya, Valencia, Lucban, Lucena City (Capital), Pitogo, Unisan, Lopezalnbay; Rizal: Antipolo, Cainta, Taytay; Sorsogon: City of Sorsogon (Capital); Irosin, Casiguran, Castilla;

Partners

a. b. c. d. e. f. g. h. i. j.

Prerequisites:

a. Go to DITO’s Promo Page at (https://dito.ph/promo-page.html) or DITO’s Facebook page at (https://www.facebook.com/DITO.ph/). Scan the promo QR code or access the promo link to access the DITO Online Store. In the DITO Online Store, check if your handset is compatible and location covered by the promo. Read, understand, and accept the terms and condition of the SIM card, Welcome Offer Promo, and privacy policy. b. Purchase the “25GB Data” package. Customers can pay using credit/debit cards and various e-wallet as indicated in the online store. Customers will be asked to input their name, email address, contact number and delivery address where the DITO packaged will be delivered, delivery is valid within the promo areas only. c. The promo package shall be delivered to the customer via third-party courier and may be subject to a delivery fee. Delivery schedule may be subject to change by the third-party couriers depending on its terms and conditions or force majeure. If you are unable to receive your order or received a damaged SIM card, you may reach out send an email to customerservice@dito.ph or send your concerns via DITO’s Facebook messenger or using the DITO App.

Create and Log-in on the DITO App – initial password will be given via SMS.

a. Log-in on the DITO App. b. Go to the App Home Page then select the 3GB Data Promo. c. Subscriber must click on the confirmation button to proceed with the purchase of the offer. d. Subscriber will receive confirmation via APP and SMS.

SIM card 25GB Data for 30 days upon activation of the SIM card. Unlimited DITO-to-DITO calls for 30 days upon activation of the SIM Card. Unlimited DITO-to-DITO SMS for 30 days upon activation of the SIM Card 300 minutes of calls to other networks Unlimited texts to other networks

a. Only those with device compatible with the DITO SIM card and has passed the location validation may avail the promo. Device and location compatibility shall be assessed during the online ordering process. The list of available devices shall be available at DITO’s website (https://www.dito.ph/). Network locked phones, aside from DITO’s, and phones blocked by government agencies shall be considered as noncompatible devices. DITO shall have the sole discretion on whether a particular device is compatible with DITO SIM cards. In case of dispute on device compatibility, the list, and records of DITO shall prevail. b. Promo is only valid for the subscriber’s DITO compatible mobile phone where the purchased DITO SIM and Promo are installed.

(note – use of the DITO App will not use or require any data allocation from the subscriber, free WiFi access shall be available in the DITO’s partner stores for application downloading and promo activation purposes, subscribers may also use the 1 GB data allocation included with the SIM card to download and activate the promo)

5)

The Php 199 promo + Php 40 SIM bundle is priced at Php 239.00 and is inclusive of the following: a. b. c. d. e. f.

Prerequisites:

Download and install the DITO App via the link included in the activation SMS. The activation SMS will be sent to the SUBSCRIBER after activation of the SIM card.

wanese fugitive is an overstaying and undocumented alien who had hidden in the country for eight years. Records show that he last arrived as a tourist in May 2013, and have been in hiding since. Sy said Yang has been on Taiwan’s most wanted list since March 2014 when a warrant for his arrest was issued by the New Taipei District Prosecutor’s Office initiating an investigation into his alleged involvement in narcotics trafficking. Another warrant was reportedly issued against Yang by the same prosecutor’s office based on complaints for possession of guns, ammunition, and bladed weapons that were filed against him. The Taiwanese is presently detained at the BI warden facility in Camp Bagong Diwa, Taguig City pending implementation of the order for his deportation and will be barred from entering the country.

SENATOR Sherwin Gatchalian on Thursday pressed the National Electrification Administration (NEA) to ensure the continuing and uninterrupted supply of electricity in Baguio City and all 13 towns in Benguet province amid the leadership crisis in Benguet Electric Cooperative (BENECO). Earlier, NEA Administrator Emmanuel Juaneza assured Gatchalian in a Senate budget hearing that “there’s no more trouble in the area insofar as BENECO is concerned.” Gatchalian is preparing to file a Senate resolution on the matter. “Our concern is stability in that area. Baguio is a highly urbanized city and we don’t want them to experience brownouts because of this commotion,” Gatchalian said. Gatchalian, before tackling the proposed P3.896-billion corporate operating budget of NEA for 2022, brought up the viral video reported by various news websites on what appeared to be a takeover of BENECO early morning of Oct. 18, showing police officers storming the rural electric utility’s office to impose preventive suspension orders on its president, seven board members, and general manager after they refused to recognize the new general manager appointed by the NEA.

2)

a. a. Must have a valid and working DITO prepaid SIM card installed in one DITO compatible phone. The list of outlets selling the SIM card can be found in DITO’s website (https://www.dito.ph). 4)

Camiling Paniqui Mapandan Rosario San Marcelino San Narciso Santa Cruz Lopez Guinobatan Malabuyoc Buenavista Kitaotao

The promo package must be purchased within this period. SIM and promo must be activated within 30 days from delivery. Promo will not activate beyond the 30-day delivery period.

The promo is priced at Php 39.00 and is inclusive of the following: a. b. c. d.

Promo will be available starting from October 29, 2021 – January 31,2022 in the following additional areas as approved by DTI-FTEB: Tarlac Tarlac Pangasinan La Union Zambales Zambales Zambales Quezon Albay Cebu Agusan Del Norte Bukidnon

Camiling Paniqui Mapandan Rosario San Marcelino San Narciso Santa Cruz Lopez Guinobatan Malabuyoc Buenavista Kitaotao

The promo must be activated within the promo period. Promos activated after the promo period shall not take effect.

nership with the CMSE Philippines has been one of our most valued connections,” Lorenzana explained. According to CMSE-PHL, the training strengthened the medical capabilities of the BRP Gabriela Silang crew while working in a wide range of environments during maritime operations. It was also designed to enhance the ability of the PCG to respond during both maritime security operations and search and rescue operations. “Every opportunity that we are afforded to train with the Philippine Coast Guard becomes a learning experience for our whole team,” said Staff Sgt. Brandon Gonzalez, CMSE-PHL medical sergeant.

NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC 1)

Promo will be available from October 29, 2021-January 31,2022 in the following additional areas. Tarlac Tarlac Pangasinan La Union Zambales Zambales Zambales Quezon Albay Cebu Agusan Del Norte Bukidnon

By Julito G. Rada

BI orders deportation of Taiwanese fugitive

NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC

DITO 39 Promo Promo Mechanics:

PH wants more ‘action’ on climate commitments THE government urged Western economies largely responsible for the most greenhouse gas emissions to act now in significantly reducing their carbon footprints and to make good on their commitments to extend the financing needed by climate-vulnerable countries to transition to a clean energy future. Speaking on behalf of the Philippines, Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III said at the opening of the virtual 2021 Annual Meeting of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) that he wanted to see the decades-old discussions on how to fight climate change translated into concrete actions now. “Clearly, the Philippines is moving with urgency. But we have seen very little funding and actions promised by Western countries materialize. All that has been done is talk without concrete action,” Dominguez said at the AIIB Flagship Seminar on the Paris Agreement held virtually Wednesday night (Manila time). “We need the Western countries to take responsibility for having contributed and continue to contribute the most to greenhouse gas emissions. They must be given the greater burden of paying for the grants, investments, and subsidies needed for the most climate-vulnerable countries to mitigate the effects of global warming,” he said. Dominguez said these countries have “avoided the pain by buying their way out of their global obligations,” which include offering developing nations money that are insufficient to make the carbon reductions that they themselves are unwilling to make in their own economies. “Because of this, very little has been achieved in mitigating climate change,” he said. He said to demonstrate how developing countries can mainstream climate change in the financial sector, the Philippines will showcase its Sustainable Finance Roadmap at the 26th United Nations (UN) Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP26) to be held in Glasgow, Scotland next week.

ela Silang and medical ofﬁcers of the PCG Nursing Corps. “The training was designed to mirror real-world medical situations likely to be encountered by the crew of the BRP Gabriela Silang and culminated with an exercise designed to replicate

a real maritime law enforcement boarding operation,” the embassy stressed. The participants in the scenario boarded a suspected vessel, received a simulated casualty during their search, and conducted treatment and medical evacuation to the BRP Gabriela Silang, it said. Commodore Rolando Lorenzana, commander of the BRP Gabriela Silang, said maritime law enforcement boarding operations are commonly executed by the PCG as part of their maritime security duties. “Whether it’s helping the people of Palawan with COVID-19 relief or medical training that will help us save lives, our signiﬁcant and enduring part-

Via Shopee: a. Open Shopee and search for DITO in the Shopee Mall (DITO Telecommunity) account or DITO SIM. b. Click on DITO SIM product in DITO’s shop in Shopee. c. Select the SIM type compatible exactly to your handset and click Buy Now. d. The promo package shall be delivered to the customer via Shopee partner courier and may be subject to a delivery fee. Delivery is subject to the terms and conditions of Shopee and their partner couriers. If you are unable to receive your order or received a damaged SIM card, you may send an email to customerservice@dito.ph or send your concerns via DITO’s Facebook messenger or using the DITO App. You may also reach out to Shopee or its partner couriers pursuant to their terms and conditions. 7)

How to Activate the Promo a. Insert the DITO SIM in the prescreened DITO compatible device or other DITO compatible devices. The 25GB high-speed data, on-net call, and on-net text promo shall be automatically enabled upon activation of the SIM Card. To activate the SIM card, subscribers may turn on their data, attempt a call or send an SMS. b. Subscribers will receive confirmation via SMS for the activation of the SIM card and the promo.

8)

Once availed, the promo is non-refundable / non-replaceable / non-exchangeable. The promo must be availed and activated within 30 days from the date the DITO SIM was successfully delivered. The SIM card shall expire if not activated within “1” year from purchase.

9)

The promo cannot be used in conjunction with any unlimited promo offers, discount available and other exclusive promo offers.

10) The promo cannot be converted to cash, credit, or other goods and services of DITO. 11) By availing of the promo, the subscriber confirms that he/she has read, understood, and agrees to the promo mechanics, its terms and conditions, the terms and conditions of the SIM card. Subscriber also agrees not to use the SIM card and/or promo for illicit or illegal means. 12) For any concerns and/or inquiries regarding the promo, information may be sent to customerservice@dito.ph. All matters and disputes will be subject to the final decision of DITO Telecommunity. All decisions made by DITO Telecommunity pertaining to the promo will be deemed final and irrevocable, with the prior concurrence of DTI. Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-122325 Series of 2021

(MS-OCT. 29, 2021)

Riera U. Mallari, Editor; Randy M. Caluag, Assistant Editor

A8

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2021

Sports

300 coaches benefit from sport-specific PSC lectures

TNT’s Dave Marcelo is challenged by five Magnolia defenders in Game 4 of the PBA Philippine Cup in Bacolor, Pampanga. The Tropang Giga shoot for the All-Filipino title on Friday at 6 p.m.

Tropang Giga go for jugular

By Peter Atencio

P

crown at 6 p.m. today. “Yes, he can make shots. But he can also do a lot of things for us,” added Reyes now that the Tropang Giga are within reach of their sixth crown. In the semis, where Williams sharpened his skills, the Tropang Giga won their best-of-seven series, 4-3, against the Beermen, following a 97-79 triumph in Game 7. In that game, Williams tallied 28 points, eight rebounds and six assists, while Ross had 15 points and 11 boards. “He rebounds, he plays defense, and most important, he plays within the system. He does whatever it takes,” said Reyes. Great teamwork from Williams with the rest of the TNT crew is expected to push Tropang Giga to a good position of claiming the crown, according to Reyes.

LAYING against San Miguel Beer’s Chris Ross during the semiﬁnal series has helped build the conﬁdence of super rookie Mikey Williams.

This is one of the many reasons why the 6’2” Williams is playing well in the best-of-seven finals series between his TNT team and the Magnolia Hotshots in the 2021 Philippine Basketball Association Philippine Cup at the Don Honorio Ventura State University Gym in Bacolor, Pampanga. “Coming into the playoffs, we really did not know what kind of game we will get from Mikey, because this is his first experience in a finals series. But I think, going up against a guard like Chris (Ross) in the semis was an

instrument for Mikey to develop his confidence and playmaking ability,” said Talk N Text Tropang Giga coach Chot Reyes. Reyes said this after the Tropang Giga held their ground and beat the Magnolia Hotshots, 106-89, in Game 4 Wednesday night. In that game, Williams got support from his teammates at crucial stages of the game, as the Tropang Giga improved to 3-1 in the series and zeroed in on the title. TNT shoots for the All-Filipino Mikey Williams

SOME 300 participants received online sports specific lectures on athletics, badminton, and volleyball in the Philippine Sports Commission’s National Sports Coaching Certification Course on Thursday. A project under the Philippine Sports Institute’s Sports Education and Training Program, the NSCCC aims to provide an opportunity for continued learning and skill building for coaches as part of a unified national grassroots sports program in the country. “We wanted to elevate the learning experience of these participants, who previously passed the Level 1 Sports Science Lectures conducted from July 2020 to June last month,” said PSI Grassroots Program Head Abby Rivera. The two-day lectures for athletics, badminton, and volleyball were simultaneously opened by PSC Commissioners Ramon Fernandez, Commission Celia Kiram, and Commissioner Charles Maxey, respectively, via Google Meet. The program will be concluded with an examination on Saturday. The PSC-PSI also tapped on the expertise of Coach Roselyn Jamero and Coach Joseph Sy (athletics), Coach Bianca Carlos and Coach Rjay Ormilla (badminton), and Coach Jerry Yee (volleyball), to give high-quality lectures through synchronous and asynchronous learning methods. Rivera added that, “passers to be granted Level 1 accreditation on these sports specific lectures will be moving on to Level 2.” Last February, a total of 180 participants from various cities and municipalities from Luzon also received Level 1 Sports Science online lectures on Sports Philosophy, Sports Pedagogy, Sports Psychology, Sports Physiology, Talent Identification, and Sports Ethics.

Astros rout Braves, 7-2, to level World Series Carlos Correa (left) and Jose Altuve of the Houston Astros celebrate the team’s 7-2 win against the Atlanta Braves in Game 2 of the World Series at Minute Maid Park in Houston, Texas. AFP

WASHINGTON—Houston’s Jose Altuve smashed a home run and scored twice to spark the Astros over the Atlanta Braves 7-2 on Wednesday and level the World Series at one victory each. Martin Maldonado added a two-run single for the Astros, who deadlocked Major League Baseball’s best-of-seven championship final ahead of game three Friday in Atlanta. “It was good to come back and have the game we had as a team,” Altuve said. “We’re going to go to Atlanta now and take as many as we can there.” The Braves, in their first World Series since 1999, seek their first championship since 1995. They are 5-0 at home this year in the playoffs. The Astros, in their third World Series in five sea-

sons, won the 2017 crown but lost the 2019 title to Washington in seven games. Nice weather allowed the retractable Houston stadium roof to be open for only the eighth time this year. Altuve snapped a two-game hitless streak, but the 31-year-old Venezuelan slugger said he wasn’t worried about individual production, only team triumphs. “Playoff numbers don’t matter. You have to stay positive and wait until your time has come,” Altuve said. “We’re not thinking about average or homers. We’re thinking about winning and that’s how it is for the entire team.” Houston’s Jose Urquidy, a 26-year-old Mexican right-hander, struck out seven Atlanta batters over five innings for the victory. “I was very focused, throwing strikes and attacking the hitter all the time, attacking the strike zone,” Urquidy said. “The offense was very good. We’re in it. We’re going to keep fighting.” Urquidy had pitched only once in 24 days before the start but showed no signs of rust. “I was trying to compete 100%,” he said. “I was paying attention to every

single at bat. I was very tight for every pitch. I loved it.” The Astros opened the scoring in the first inning when Altuve doubled, took third on Michael Brantley’s sacrifice fly and scored on Alex Bregman’s sacrifice fly. Atlanta’s Travis d’Arnaud smashed a solo homer in the second inning to lift the Braves level. But Houston broke open the game with four runs in the second off Braves southpaw starter Max Fried. Kyle Tucker singled, took third on Yuli Gurriel’s single and scored on rookie Jose Siri’s single. Maldonado followed with a single to drive in both runners and later scored on a Brantley single for a 5-1 Astros lead. “I got a pitch out over the plate and put the stick on it,” Brantley said. “We did a great job of staying in the zone (with swings).”Braves manager Brian Snitker said losing pitcher Fried wasn’t so bad in the second despite surrendering four consecutive singles and five in all. “It was kind of a weird inning. It’s not like he got pounded around,” Snitker said. “It very easily could have been a very different outcome for him, especially in that second inning.” AFP

Wild ladies’ golf tour finish looms; Superal withdraws THE title chase in the third restart of the Ladies Philippine Golf Tour next week suddenly turned wide open as multititled Princess Superal withdrew from the ICTSI Aoki Classic at Eagle Ridge to embark on a Japan mission. Superal was actually all set to go for a third championship after sweeping the Sherwood Hills and Eagle RidgeNorman legs last July before the circuit went on another hiatus due to the spike of coronavirus cases in NCR Plus last July. But the 2019 LPGT Order of Merit winner received her Japanese visa the other day, paving the way for her reentry in the first stage of three qualifying tournaments for the LPGA of Japan Tour and Step Up Tour set Nov. 23-26 in Gunma Prefecture, Mie Prefecture and Hyogo Prefecture. She will leave on Nov. 5 for quarantine and isolation protocols. That sets up an exciting, wide-open battle for top honors in the P750,000 Aoki Classic firing off Nov. 3 with no player holding a distinct advantage over the other, mainly due to lack of competi-

tive play the last three months. But the compact field has stayed in shape during the hiatus through regular practice and range forays although actual competition remains a far more different arena for these touring ladies. But the sheer desire to shine will be more than enough motivation although Harmie Constantino has an added push as she would be heading back to the very site where she marked her pro debut with a victory over no less than the likes of Superal and Pauline del Rosario last March. A slew of bidders, however, is also coming into the 54-hole championship hungry for recognition, including Chanelle Avaricio, twice foiled by Superal the last time out, LPGA of Taiwan Tour veterans Daniella Uy, Cyna Rodriguez and Marvi Monsalve, and former leg winners Chihiro Ikeda and Sarah Ababa, thus ensuring a fierce, wild battle of shotmaking and putting in all three days. Others vying in the event are Sheryl Villacencio, Apple Fudolin, Majorie Palumbarit, Pamela Mariano, Eva Miñoza,

Lovelyn Guioguio, Sunshine Baraquiel and Florence Bisera. Gretchen Villacencio, meanwhile, has also pulled out of the event for medical reasons but has committed to play in the next LPGT bubble tournament, the ICTSI Tagaytay Highlands Challenge on Nov. 9-11. Like in the past LPGT events held during the pandemic, the organizing Pilipinas Golf Tournaments, Inc. is imposing strict guidelines and protocols to ensure the health and safety of all those involved as per the IATF (Inter-Agency Task Force) guidelines. The PGTI staged its first restart in late 2020 following an eight-month hiatus with Superal and Del Rosario splitting top honors at Riviera. It then kicked off its 2021 season last March with Constantino humbling Superal by two right in her first pro tournament at Aoki.

But another spike in Covid cases prompted the PGTI to suspend play again. The PGTI is likewise finalizing details to hold two more tournaments back at Riviera, also next month.

Harmie Constantino gets top billing in LPGT resumption

Biado leads September achievers

AFTER taking a backseat to weightlifting, golf and boxing, billiards re-established its status as a gold mine for Philippine sports with Carlo Biado capturing the 2021 US Open Pool Championship and leading the march of Filipino achievers in the month of September. Biado, one of the top guns of the decorated Philippine pool stable that produced legends Efren ‘Bata’ Reyes and Francisco ‘Django’ Bustamante, ruled the prestigious 9-ball meet one memorable Saturday night in Atlantic City. It was a comeback-for-the-ages clincher for the 37-year-old Biado, who wiped out Singaporean Aloysius Yapp’s 8-3 lead with an amazing 10-rack spree to win the race-to-13 finale by five racks. Biado, the world 9-ball kingpin in 2017, gave the Philippines its first US Open crown since e ‘The Magician’ himself hoisted the trophy 27 years ago. Barely 24 hours later, golfer Miguel Tabuena scored his breakthrough triumph in the US over in Idaho. The Rio Olympics veteran dished out a tour-de-force performance in the Idaho Open, logging a 14-under 196 spiked by a blistering 63 in the second round to beat American Brad Marek by four strokes in the 54-hole event. Another Olympian, Tokyo competitor EJ Obiena, sparkled in his battlefield as he etched his name as the new Asian pole vault record-holder of all time. World No. 5 Obiena cleared 5.93 meters on his third try to seal his victory in the 17th Golden Roof Challenge in Innsbruck, Austria while obliterating the long-standing Asian mark of 5.92m Kazakhstan’s Igor Potapovich set in France back in 1992. Obiena’s fellow campaigner in Tokyo, golf star Yuka Saso, delivered a strong showing in the LPGA as she placed fourth in the Arkansas Championship. The national women’s football team likewise reaped success as it topped Group F of the AFC Women’s Asian Cup Qualifiers against Nepal and Hong Kong to make it back to the Continental tournament set next year with a chance to grab a ticket to the 2023 Fifa Women’s World Cup.

Business

THE Australian Anti-Dumping Commission issued a final decision to discontinue the anti-dumping measures that were applied to consumer and food service industrial pineapple exported by the Philippines. The AD duties have been in place since 2000. Starting Oct. 17, consumer pineapples may enter the Australian fruit market duty-free while canned pineapples may be brought to Australia starting Nov. 13 under the ASEAN-Australia Free Trade Agreement. The AD duties that will soon expire are equivalent to 5.9 percent for Dole Philippines and 22.9 percent for all other exporters for consumer pineapple. The AD duties for pineapple products for FSI is 18.7 percent. The ADCC determined that the expiration of the AD measures would not lead to a continuation or recurrence of dumping. Othel V. Campos

Hot money yields $24-m net outflows FOREIGN portfolio investments inyielded net outflows of $24 million in September, a reversal from the net inflows of $12 million in August, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas said Thursday. The BSP said in a statement this resulted from the $1.21-billion gross outflows and $1.19-billion gross inflows in September. “The $1.19-billion registered investments for September 2021 reflected a 47.3-percent [or by $381 million] increase compared to the $807 million recorded in August 2021,” the BSP said. Majority of investments (or 74.3 percent) registered were in Philippine Stock Exchange-listed securities while the remaining 25.7 percent went to investments in peso government securities. The United Kingdom, the United States, Switzerland, Hong Kong and Singapore were the top five investor countries in September with combined share of 84.4 percent. Julito G. Rada

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2021

B1

Philippines, a consumer goods company, teams up with J&T Express Philippines in recognition of the work its riders and staff continue to do for the public through the courier company’s ‘J&T Heroes’ award, where J&T Express pays tribute to its riders. Clorox provided boxes containing Clorox Expert Disinfecting Wipes, Prestone Brake Fluid and Prestone Coolant for use of J&T Express’ 10,000 riders throughout the country to enable safe and germ-free deliveries.

BDO Leasing earns P39.8m

Australia allows PH pineapples

business@manilastandard.net extrastory2000@gmail.com

CLOROX-J&T TIEUP. Clorox

IN BRIEF BDO Leasing & Finance Inc., the leasing and financing entity of BDO Unibank Inc., posted a 70-percent decline in net income in the first nine months to P39.8 million from P134.6 million a year ago. BDO Leasing said in a statement the nine-month figure was derived solely from fair value gain from investments in unit trust investment funds. Of the P6.0 billion of BDOLF’s assets as of end-September, almost all or P5.9 billion was invested in UITFs. “The nine months 2021 results were lower compared to P134.6 million earnings a year-ago, as last year’s earnings was based on a balance sheet prior to the full implementation of the restructuring of BDO Unibank Group’s leasing business. This entailed the sale of substantially all of BLFI’s assets to BDO Unibank, BDO Life, and BDO Finance Corp.,” it said. BLFI ceased to operate as a leasing company and completed the assignment and transfer of its leasing and financing business to BDO Finance Corp. on Oct. 19, 2020. BDO Finance was established to offer customers access to lease products and services. It assumed the lease transactions booked in BFLI to ensure continuity to the latter’s clients.Julito G. Rada

Ray S. Eñano, Editor Roderick T. dela Cruz, Assistant Editor

Lower alert level in NCR to lift economy—NEDA E By Julito G. Rada

conomic Planning Secretary Karl Kendrick Chua said Thursday the lowering of COVID-19 alert level status in Metro Manila will have a positive impact on economic growth and employment. “We did some analysis recently and we tried to measure the weekly improvements on our economic performance every time we move from one alert level to another,” Chua said during the virtual Economic Journalists Association of the Philippines economic forum. “The de-escalation of NCR to alert level 2 can increase GDP [gross domestic product] by P3.6 billion and employment by 16,000 per week compared to the current classification [alert level 3]. If further de-escalated to alert level 1, an additional P10.3 billion in GDP and 43,000 in employment [versus alert level 2] can be gained per week,” Chua said. Metro Manila is now under alert level 3, following a substantial decline in new COVID-19 infections. “These are very clear indicators why opening the economy will have a direct impact on GDP and the people,” Chua said. He said these were aligned with the 4 percent to 5 percent GDP growth target of the government this year. The National Capital Region accounted for around 32.3 percent of GDP in 2020. Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque said on Oct. 25 there was a big possibility that the alert level 3 status of NCR would be downgraded further as the average daily attack rate continued to decrease. Citing data from the Department of Health, Roque said the two-week attack rate within Metro Manila declined to 52 percent, while the average daily attack rate decreased to 9.87 percent, signal-

MPIC seeks faster approval of infra projects By Darwin G. Amojelar METRO Pacific Tollways Corp. expressed hope the new government will expedite the approval and award process of infrastructure projects to stimulate the economy. “With the incoming administration, we hope that the bottlenecks in terms of awarding of projects will be addressed that we can have new projects that have in the economic recovery,” Rodrigo Franco, president and chief executive of MPTC, said in a forum organized by Economic Journalists Association of the Philippines. “Unlike in our Indonesia business, we have actually have a number of projects in the pipeline that are ready to start. But, right now in the Philippines, we don’t have a healthy project pipeline,” he said.

MPTC Group’s proposed projects that have yet approved by the government include the P92-billion NLEX-CAVITEX Port Expressway Link, the P71-billion C5 Expressway Project and the P16-billion Harbor Link Port Access Mobility Facility Project. Franco said most of the group’s major infrastructure projects would soon be completed despite the COVID-19 pandemic. “Right now, we are about to complete most of our big projects, but unfortunately we don’t have any projects that are about to start construction,” he said. MPTC expects to complete the P31billion new expressway in Cebu province by February next year, while the España Boulevard section, or the first 5 kilometers of NLEX Connector, will be completed by first quarter next year.

Pag-IBIG, Muntinlupa launch housing project PAG-IBIG Fund launched a new housing project under its Countryside Housing Initiative in partnership with Muntinlupa City to provide affordable homes to employees of the local government unit. The BALAI Munti Housing Project, which consists of 35 medium-rise buildings providing 668 condominium units, will be made available for employees of the city government who may purchase these units through a Pag-IBIG Housing Loan. “With the partnership between the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development, Pag-IBIG Fund and the city government of Muntinlupa, we have made this housing project possible. This launch is a timely event because we are celebrating the National Shelter Month this October. This is also a historic event because the BALAI Munti is the first DHSUD-BALAI-

funded project in the NCR and is part of PagIBIG Fund’s Countryside Housing Initiative,” said DHSUD Secretary Eduardo del Rosario. “The CHI brings together project proponents to bring quality and affordable housing projects to more Filipinos, as we continue to implement our nation’s shelter program as led by President Rodrigo Duterte,” said del Rosario, who also chairs the 11-member Pag-IBIG Fund board of trustees. Pag-IBIG Fund established the Countryside Housing Initiative or CHI in 2017 as a strategy to provide better access to homes for its members through partnerships with government and private institutions, employers and other organized groups. Such partnerships reduce costs in building the housing projects and provide the beneficiaries with homes that are much more affordable compared to similar projects.

ing apossible chance of lowering some restrictions. Roque said the NCR’s COVID-19 bed utilization rate was now at 39 percent and 48 percent of beds dedicated for intensive care were occupied. He said the lowering of restrictions would further allow the reopening of more businesses in the region.

Vitarich signs deal to acquire poultry company for P45m By Jenniffer B. Austria POULTRY producer Vitarich Corp. is expanding its business with the acquisition of Barbatos Ventures Corp. for P45 million. Vitarich said in a disclosure to the stock exchange its board of directors approved the terms of memorandum of understanding with Luzon Agriventure Inc. to buy shares owned and held by LAVI in BVC. BVC is engaged in poultry production, processing, raising and breeding of chickens and similar stocks. It offers various range of services from tolling, packing, cutting and storage of quality dressed chicken. Vitarich said the acquisition would provide the company additional source of income and cost savings, with minimal impact on cashflow. “It is also consonant to Vitarich’s plan for improving and ramping up production of dressed chicken and other products for its hotel, restaurant and institutions clientele,” the company said. Under the MOU, the transaction will be subject to prior due diligence and fairness opinion and compliance with Securities and Exchange Commission and Philippine Stock Exchange regulations for related party transactions. The actual value of the transaction will still depend on the actual appraisal of the business, but the acquisition cost was capped at P45 million. The amount will also be payable in installments over three years from 2022 to 2024. “Should the conditions be fully satisfied and the acquisition of BVC shares eventually materialize, BVC will become a subsidiary of Vitarich. The share price of Vitarich rose 2.67 percent Thursday to close at P0.77.

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK Manila

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Business

TODAYOCTOBER 29, 2021 B2 || FRIDAY, extrastory2000@gmail.com

Japan lowers annual growth target to 3.4% TOKYO, Japan—The Bank of Japan revised down its annual growth forecast on Thursday and maintained its ultra-loose monetary policy as the pandemic continues to weigh on the world’s third-largest economy. In a quarterly report on prices and the economy, the central bank predicted growth of 3.4 percent for the year to March 2022, down from its previous forecast of 3.8 percent. “Downward pressure stemming from COVID-19 is likely to remain on service consumption, and exports and production are expected to decelerate temporarily due to supply-side constraints,” the report said. “Thereafter, however, with the impact of COVID-19 waning gradually, mainly due to widespread vaccination, the economy is likely to recover.” Reflecting this more positive longerterm outlook, the bank revised up its growth forecast for the fiscal year to March 2023 to 2.9 percent from the previous estimate of 2.7 percent. The BoJ maintained its longstanding target of two-percent inflation, which remains far off despite years of efforts and prices surging globally. The unchanged policy decision had been widely expected by marketwatchers. “We do not expect the BoJ will consider amending its core easing policy with yield curve control, even though other central banks have begun to unwind the easing through tapering and rate hikes with recovery of the economy from the pandemic and higher inflation,” said UBS economist Masamichi Adachi ahead of the decision. “We continue to expect that the BoJ will stay on hold with easing bias, at least until April 2023 when governor (Haruhiko) Kuroda and two deputy governors are scheduled to end their terms.” The bank’s special lending program to support businesses affected by the pandemic is due to end in March, and “we think the discussion on how to end (or not end) will start in December or January,” Adachi added. The central bank also revised down its inflation forecast for this fiscal year from 0.6 percent to flat, but said this was due to a rebasing of the index. AFP

Stocks drop; SM Prime, Consunji issues decline

S

HARE prices sank Thursday along with the rest of Asia on fears over rising inflation and pressure on central banks to tighten monetary policy.

The Philippine Stock Exchange Index slumped 72.42 points, or 1 percent, to 7,157.73 on a value turnover of P7.2 billion. Losers beat gainers, 121 to 85, with 41 issues unchanged. SM Prime Holdings Inc. of the Sy Group fell 3.7 percent to P33.70, while conglomerate Ayala Corp. of the Ayala Group dropped 3.3 percent to P850. Semirara Mining and Power Corp. of the Consunji Group, the biggest coal miner, declined 7.1 percent to P26.05, while parent DMCI Holdings Inc. decreased 6.1 percent to P8.22. The rest of Asian markets fell as in-

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

CAB BKR MBC PRIM ABG TBGI MFIN WIN ALCO WLCON

LAST PRICE 62.95 1.4 11 1.72 6 0.36 2.6 0.27 0.65 31.2

CHANGE 14.9 0.27 2 0.17 0.5 0.03 0.2 0.02 0.03 1.4

% CHANGE 31.01% 23.89% 22.22% 10.97% 9.09% 9.09% 8.33% 8.00% 4.84% 4.70%

TOP LOSERS 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

OPM MAHB MED PBB SCC DMC GSMI DWC MB SUN

LAST PRICE 0.01 1.62 0.315 8.5 26.05 8.22 105 2.3 0.41 1.46

CHANGE -0.001 -0.16 -0.03 -0.8 -2 -0.53 -6.1 -0.12 -0.02 -0.07

% CHANGE -9.09% -8.99% -8.70% -8.60% -7.13% -6.06% -5.49% -4.96% -4.65% -4.58%

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

SMPH ICT ALI TEL CNVRG GLO SCC DMC MREIT URC

VOLUME 24,623,600 3,046,050 12,283,400 238,005 9,939,400 104,705 11,220,400 29,279,500 11,378,700 1,369,140

VALUE (PHP) 834,647,865 572,023,963 439,534,285 398,754,750 322,039,430 314,566,240 302,293,195 244,704,785 204,883,546 189,817,166

S. Arabia megacity project flirts with major taboo: alcohol By Talek Harris and Rania Sanjar

AMOUNTS CURRENT QUARTER

PREVIOUS QUARTER

Cash and Cash Items Due from Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Due from Other Banks Financial Assets at Fair Value through Profit or Loss Available-for-Sale Financial Assets-Net Held-to-Maturity (HTM) Financial Assets-Net Loans and Receivables - Net Interbank Loans Receivable Loans and Receivables - Others Loans and Receivables Arising from RA/CA/PR/SLB General Loan Loss Provision Other Financial Assets Bank Premises, Furniture, Fixture and Equipment-Net Real and Other Properties Acquired-Net Other Assets-Net

554,807,663.50 6,788,315,994.80 862,043,365.68 502,281,248.26 5,879,880,979.92 5,596,716,779.12 33,197,618,686.88 2,254,200,000.00 30,226,199,591.47 1,127,462,734.00 410,243,638.59 464,006,991.71 993,761,811.98 94,062,583.32 1,316,158,564.23

505,162,112.86 2,941,405,439.95 1,569,215,861.88 644,426,054.46 6,456,216,066.54 3,731,055,461.90 34,260,799,898.56 3,267,160,000.00 30,889,634,477.42 548,690,675.00 444,685,253.86 504,895,531.72 997,089,991.53 95,541,233.56 1,462,239,874.13

TOTAL ASSETS

56,249,654,669.40

53,168,047,527.09

Financial Liabilities at Fair Value through Profit or Loss Deposit Liabilities Bills Payable a) Interbank Loans Payable Other Financial Liabilities Other Liabilities

250,859,936.28 39,486,018,792.82 2,343,876,831.07 2,343,876,831.07 460,939,766.03 3,012,035,178.44

67,167,235.11 36,023,811,136.44 1,947,689,083.48 1,947,689,083.48 1,044,726,270.00 3,341,287,849.14

TOTAL LIABILITIES

45,553,730,504.64

42,424,681,574.17

5,505,833,769.57 -115,628,828.53 5,305,719,223.72

5,505,833,769.57 -68,187,040.37 5,305,719,223.72

TOTAL STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

10,695,924,164.76

10,743,365,952.92

TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

56,249,654,669.40

53,168,047,527.09

Financial Standby Letters of Credit Performance Standby Letters of Credit Commercial Letters of Credit Commitments Spot Foreign Exchange Contracts Trust Department Accounts a) Trust and Other Fiduciary Accounts b) Agency Accounts Derivatives Others

1,326,632,394.92 198,045,760.71 1,127,882,918.61 363,200,000.00 5,614,165,311.67 1,590,785,758.02 614,555,045.51 976,230,712.51 14,466,058,719.99 1,885,301,447.91

870,369,934.64 62,940,569.30 1,083,142,132.58 350,000,000.00 3,980,555,241.77 1,638,509,384.74 641,027,679.36 997,481,705.38 19,651,094,850.01 1,789,824,027.53

TOTAL CONTINGENT ACCOUNTS

26,572,072,311.83

29,426,436,140.57

Gross Total Loan Portfolio (TLP) 34,458,348,267.03 Specific Allowance for credit losses on the TLP 850,485,941.56 Non-performing Loans (NPLs) a. Gross NPLs 691,510,540.31 b. Ratio of gross NPLs to gross TLP (%) 2.01% c. Net NPLs 288,696,585.78 d. Ratio of Net NPLs to gross TLP (%) 0.84% e. Ratio of total allowance for credit losses to gross NPL (%) 182.32% 122.99% f. Ratio of specific allowance for credit losses on the gross TLP to gross NPL (%) Classified Loans & Other Risk Assets, gross of allowance for credit losses 4,172,783,304.77 DOSRI Loans and receivables, gross of allowance for credit losses 17,281,043.97 Ratio of DOSRI Loans and receivables, gross of allowance for credit losses, to TLP (%) 0.05% Gross Non-performing DOSRI loans and receivables 0.00 Ratio of gross non-performing DOSRI loans and receivable to TLP (%) 0.00% Percent Compliance with Magna Carta (%) a. 8% for Micro and Small Enterprises 2.32% b. 2% for Medium Enterprises 1.34% Return on Equity (ROE) (%) 1.81% Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR) on Solo Basis a. Total CAR (%) 25.63% b. TIER 1 Ratio (%) 24.78% c. CET 1 (%) 24.78% Deferred Charges not yet Written Down 0.00 Unbooked Allowance for Credit Losses on Financial Instrument Received 0.00 Basel III leverage Ratio (BLR) on Solo Basis, as prescribed under existing regulations i. Capital Measure - Tier 1 10,161,387,609.13 ii. Exposure Measure 58,738,150,626.29 iii. Total BLR (%) 17.30% Liquidity Coverage Ratio (LCR) on Single Currency Basis, as prescribed under regulations i. Total High-Quality Liquid Assets (HQLA) 19,589,168,834.26 ii. Total Net Cash outflows 10,421,051,962.04 iii. Total LCR (%) 187.98%

35,515,969,780.35 810,484,627.93

LIABILITIES

STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

CONTINGENT ACCOUNTS

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

714,005,693.65 2.01% 293,635,446.30 0.83% 175.79% 113.51% 3,718,889,374.11 16,741,800.44 0.05% 0.00 0.00% 3.28% 1.78% 2.58% 24.82% 23.97% 23.97% 0.00 0.00 10,127,605,154.97 54,958,645,746.63 18.43% 14,149,014,524.97 8,297,529,324.34 170.52%

I/We hereby certify that all matters set forth in this Published Balance Sheet are true and correct, to the best of my knowledge and belief.

(Sgd) ANDREW A. FALCON Chief Finance Officer (Signature over printed name)

lift interest rates sooner than they had hoped or withdraw their easy-money policies to prevent inflation from running out of control. The Bank of Canada on Wednesday said it would end its vast bond-buying program, and flagged an interest rate hike earlier in 2022 than previously envisaged, while Brazil also raised rates. The moves come after finance chiefs in South Korea and New Zealand raised borrowing costs, and as the Bank of England and Reserve Bank of Australia prepare for lift-off. Meanwhile, the Federal Reserve is expected to start tapering its vast bondbuying program by the end of the year and hike rates in the middle of 2022. It is hoped the European Central Bank’s policy meeting later in the day will provide clarity on its own plans, though expectations are for it to stand pat, while the Bank of Japan held its own easing policy in place Thursday. With AFP

LOCKDOWN OVER. A father and daughter pass a store front in Melbourne on October 28, 2021, as the city prepares to welcome back customers to its stores after enduring its sixth pandemic lockdown. AFP

Statement of Condition (Head Office and Branches) As of September 30, 2021

Capital Stock Other Capital Accounts Retained Earnings

TOP GAINERS

MOST ACTIVE

16th to 22nd Floors, Fort Legend Towers 31st Street corner 3rd Avenue, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City 1634

ASSETS

vestors contemplate the end of the cheap-cash era, while spiking COVID-19 infections act as a reminder that the pandemic is far from over. Ongoing worries about China’s vast property sector and the future of giant developer Evergrande were also in view ahead of a payment deadline, while uncertainty over Joe Biden’s social spending plan was also keeping a lid on sentiment. However, a string of healthy corporate earnings reports has provided a crucial boost to trading floors, helping push markets to multi-year or record highs this week, while Apple and Amazon are due to report later in the day. Initial optimism that the global economic recovery would bound well into next year has petered out in recent months as dealers assess the impact of soaring inflation, with prices rising at rates not seen for decades in some countries owing to supply chain snarls and rocketing demand. That has led several central banks to

PSEi OCTOBER 28, 2021

(Sgd) OLIVER D. JIMENO President and CEO (Signature over printed name)

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia—Saudi Arabia’s futuristic NEOM city has not ruled out allowing alcohol, a senior official told AFP on Wednesday, in what would be a historic change for the deeply conservative Muslim country. Unlike other Gulf countries where foreigners can have at least limited legal access to alcohol, a blanket ban remains in the kingdom, which hosts Islam’s holiest sites. Expats consider the ban a deterrent to working in or visiting Saudi Arabia. But the kingdom has been opening up to the world through sweeping economic and social reforms. NEOM, the high-tech, $500-billion center being built on the Red Sea, is part of de facto ruler Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s Vision 2030 plan to diversify the oil-dependent economy. NEOM will operate under its own founding law that is still being formulated.

Joseph Bradley, CEO of NEOM’s Tech and Digital Holding Company, speaks during an interview with AFP on the sidelines of the annual Future Investment Initiative conference in the Saudi capital Riyadh on October 27, 2021. AFP

Joseph Bradley, CEO of NEOM’s Tech and Digital Holding Company, could not confirm alcohol would be allowed under the new law, but he told AFP that “everyone understands” the need to attract foreign talent and tourists. “What we get asked a lot is this whole notion around is there going to be alcohol, what are you going to do around this?” he said in an interview at the Future Investment Initiative in Riyadh. “To be clear, NEOM is meant to be competitive. We want the world’s best and brightest to come to NEOM.” He added: “Understand that it is our intention to attract the most diverse and most talented workforce and we are doing everything that we can and that we will do to attract that workforce.” ‘Social backlash’ NEOM, which will feature robots and is trialling airborne taxis, is on track to welcome its first businesses and residents by 2025, Bradley said. The founding law should be approved by the NEOM board within one to two years, he added. Prince Mohammed is NEOM’s chairman. “I have not seen the specifics of the law in regards to (alcohol),” Bradley said. “But I can tell you very, very clearly that everyone understands that we’re going to build a founding law that attracts the tourism market, that attracts the tech market, that attracts the manufacturing market.” Among his reforms since becoming crown prince in 2017, Prince Mohammed, known as MBS, lifted a ban on women driving and curbed the powers of the feared religious police. But the reforms have been accompanied by a crackdown on critics of Prince Mohammed’s rule, including female activists. Legalizing alcohol would break a major taboo in a country known for Wahhabism, a rigid interpretation of Islam. This month, a Saudi official told AFP that allowing alcohol in a limited form—in designated areas or only to foreigners, for example—had been under consideration, calling it a “delicate issue” and saying authorities feared a “social backlash.” AFP CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

Entertainment Smart continues to nurture and champion Filipinos’ creativity and passion for content creation by powering BaiCon InFest 2021

Smart champions creativity in BaiCon InFest 2021 LEADING mobile services provider Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) continues its commitment in nurturing and championing Filipinos’ creativity and passion for content creation by powering BaiCon InFest 2021, the biggest gathering of content creators and influencers from all around the Philippines, to be streamed on Facebook Live on Oct. 30 and 31. BaiCon InFest 2021 is expected to bring in more than 100 creators from all over the country and some parts of the world, seeking to connect them to their fans and audience, as well as various brands and agencies. The sessions will help the youth take on the different demands and challenges of the digital lifestyle. Among the featured creators are AC Bonifacio, Kween Yasmin Asistido, Dimples Romana and her husband, Boyet Ahmee, Kimpoy Feliciano, Angie “Anghet” Cayetano, Mikey Bustos, Gino Quillamor, Bogart D’Explorer, Medyo Maldito, Snake Princess, Kean Cipriano from the band Callalily, Ramon Bautista, Jen Barangan, Ady Cots, Mayonnaise, Xavier Gonzales Solis, and Erwan Heussaff. Also included in the roster are Mark del Rosario, Renz David, Ian Mauricio, Kit Digno, Dr. Dex Mallari, Dr. Zeke Albaria, Ninong Ry, Phillip Te Hernandez (Davao Conyo), Kim Charlie Cruz, Gandang Morenx, Deedee Villegas, Clare Inso, Chezka Carandang, Inka Magnaye, Dom Guyot, Justine Luzares, Maggiekarp, Amara, Nana Silayro, Blink, Nikkinikki, and many more. Win a 5G Phone when you join Smart’s social media challenges Access to the Baicon InFest 2021 Facebook Live stream is free. Fans may watch today’s top creators with Smart Prepaid Unli GIGA data offers — choose from Unli GIGA Stories, which comes with Unli Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, and Kumu; or Unli GIGA Video, which comes with non-stop YouTube, iWantTFC, NBA League Pass, and Cignal Play. Both promos come with 2 GB of open-access data for seven days for only P149. To subscribe to UNLI GIGA, simply log into the GigaLife App then choose UNLI GIGA. Attendees of the Baicon Infest 2021 also have a chance to win a 5G phone when they post their y2K OOTD on Facebook, or by sharing their favorite y2K memories on Instagram. To join the contest, simply use the official hashtags #SmartBaicon2021 #UnliGigaStories and #PoweredBySmart.

With great sash, comes great responsibility IF HE wins in the upcoming Mr. Gay World USA 2022, ThaiAmerican Jack Titus will try to inherit the title currently held by the Philippines’ Kodie Macayan. Titus, who will represent the state of Nevada, expressed excitement to join 24 pageant influencers from the Philippines during a virtual ‘meet-and-greet’ event on Oct. 25. Titus, a 29-year-old Medical Assistant student at the University of Nevada, loves traveling, going to the beach and Thai food. She considers Ellen DeGeneres his gay hero who has done so much for the LGBTQIA (also known as MOGII) community. Titus has been training under Miss Universe Thailand 2019 Paweensuda Drouin as Q&A coach and international pageant coach RL Lacanienta of RL’s Angels Philippines. “With great sash, comes great responsibility. If you have the ability to do something, make sure that you do it for the good of others. I joined Mr. Gay World USA because I want to have a bigger voice by using this platform to promote positive change in the LGBTQ community in our country and hopefully in the world,” said the 6-foot-1 vlogger. Be it with fighting for our equal rights, empowerment, fostering unity, spreading social awareness and most of all to share and learn from my life experiences. I also want to promote my advocacy which is Equity one step at a time. From local to global, once I am given an opportunity to represent our country in the international pageant,” he added. Titus had the chance to meet Miss Nevada USA 2021 Kataluna Enriquez, a Filipino-American transgender. “She is an inspiration for all LQBTIQ+, breaking down barriers as the first transgender woman in the history of Miss USA pageant. I am so glad to be a part of a community that not only strives to make our place in the world, but lifts each other as well,” said Titus who looks for a dream husband as mature, independent, with great sense of humor and someone who connects well with his personality. Read full story on manilastandard.net

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2021

B3

How Vic Sotto keeps his brand of comedy relevant S

ENIOR actor Vic Sotto believes that a comedian needs to improve his material to stay relevant to younger audiences. It’s also imperative for an actor to keep up with the changing times including the kind of platforms where viewers get their entertainment.

But what really contributed to the longevity of his career was his conscious effort to believe in the character he plays. “I see myself as an entertainer. It’s always a challenge to be relevant — the new formats, the people that you’re working with because I’m a team player. I prefer situations that are funny rather than myself executing the comedy spiels or yung nagpapatawa,” Sotto, the lead star of sitcom Daddy’s Gurl said. “Throughout the years, in doing TV

'Daddy's Gurl' lead cast members Vic Sotto and Maine Mendoza celebrate the sitcom's third year on-air.

shows and movies, I have learned to adjust. You need to give, you need to take,” the 67-year-old TV host and comedian said. Now that the hit comedy sitcom Daddy’s Gurl celebrates its third year on-air with a brand-new hilarious season and a new set of young actors as newest cast members — Carlo San Juan, Prince Carlos, Prince Clemente, and comedian Jem Manicad — Sotto shares some wisdom to guide them in exploring their television career. “You really have to be a team player, everything must be in accordance with the script based on what the director likes. Hindi pwede yung lahat sayo, ikaw ang bida, sayo yung punchlines,” Sotto said. In Daddy’s Gurl, Senior comedian Vic Sotto with the complete cast of the weekly sitcom. Barak (Sotto) and Stacy’s Manila

Standard

TODAY

NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC

Promo Mechanics: 1)

Promo will be available starting from October 29, 2021- January 31,2022 in the following additional areas as approved by DTI-FTEB: Tarlac Tarlac Pangasinan La Union Zambales Zambales Zambales Quezon Albay Cebu Agusan Del Norte Bukidnon

NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC

Tarlac Tarlac Pangasinan La Union Zambales Zambales Zambales Quezon Albay Cebu Agusan Del Norte Bukidnon

Camiling Paniqui Mapandan Rosario San Marcelino San Narciso Santa Cruz Lopez Guinobatan Malabuyoc Buenavista Kitaotao

The promo is priced at Php 199.00 and is inclusive of the following: a. b. c. d. e.

3)

2)

3)

How to download and install DITO App:

4)

(note – use of the DITO App will not use or require any data allocation from the subscriber, free WiFi access shall be available in the DITO’s partner stores for application downloading and promo activation purposes, subscribers may also use the 1 GB data allocation included with the SIM card to download and activate the promo) Create and Log-in on the DITO App – initial password will be given via SMS.

Create and Log-in on the DITO App – initial password will be given via SMS.

6)

Promo shall only be offered in the following new areas:

How to download and install DITO App: Download and install the DITO App via the link included in the activation SMS. The activation SMS will be sent to the SUBSCRIBER after activation of the SIM card.

(note – use of the DITO App will not use or require any data allocation from the subscriber, free WiFi access shall be available in the DITO’s partner stores for application downloading and promo activation purposes, subscribers may also use the 1 GB data allocation included with the SIM card to download and activate the promo)

How to avail the promo: a. Log-in on the DITO App. b. Go to the App Home Page then select the 25GB Data Promo. c. Subscriber must click on the confirmation button to proceed with the purchase of the offer. d. Subscriber will receive confirmation via APP and SMS.

Prerequisites: Must have a valid and working DITO prepaid SIM card installed in one DITO compatible phone. The list of outlets selling the SIM card can be found in DITO’s website (https:// www.dito.ph). b. Must have an existing DITO load of at least Php 99.00. The list of outlets selling the DITO load can be found in DITO’s website (https://www.dito.ph). c. Installed and working DITO App in device.

Download and install the DITO App via the link included in the activation SMS. The activation SMS will be sent to the SUBSCRIBER after activation of the SIM card.

5)

10GB Data for 30 days upon activation of the promo. Unlimited DITO-to-DITO calls for 30 days upon activation of the promo. Unlimited DITO-to-DITO SMS for 30 days upon activation of the promo. 300 minutes of calls to other mobile networks Unlimited texts to other mobile networks

a.

a. Must have a valid and working DITO prepaid SIM card installed in one DITO compatible phone. The list of outlets selling the SIM card can be found in DITO’s website (https:// www.dito.ph). b. Must have an existing DITO load of at least Php 199.00. The list of outlets selling the DITO load can be found in DITO’s website (https://www.dito.ph). c. Installed and working DITO App in device. 4)

The promo is priced at Php 99.00 and is inclusive of the following: a. b. c. d. e.

25GB Data for 30 days upon activation of the promo. Unlimited DITO-to-DITO calls for 30 days upon activation of the promo. Unlimited DITO-to-DITO SMS for 30 days upon activation of the promo. 300 minutes of calls to other mobile networks Unlimited texts to other mobile networks

Prerequisites:

Camiling Paniqui Mapandan Rosario San Marcelino San Narciso Santa Cruz Lopez Guinobatan Malabuyoc Buenavista Kitaotao

The promo must be activated within the promo period. Promos activated after the promo period shall not take effect.

The promo must be activated within the promo period. Promos activated after the promo period shall not take effect. 2)

(Maine Mendoza) loveable fatherdaughter relationship as a promdi widower dad and a pasosyal unica hija continues to be a much-awaited weekend habit for many fans. The two have grown to learn from each of their characters and owe the series’ successful three-year run to the people working behind the scenes. “All of us get along off-cam so makikita mo rin on-cam kung paano ba kami magbatuhan ng linya, kung ano ‘yung relationship namin sa isa’t-isa. All comes naturallyespecially with the help of our director,” Mendoza shares. The series is further made comical with the appearances of Wally Bayola as Marikit Otogan, Barak’s wife who passed away but still talks to him; and Oyo Sotto as Lance Saavedra, Stacy’s strict, handsome, and charming boss. Under the helm of Chris Martinez, Daddy’s Gurl airs every this Saturday after Magpakailanman on GMA-7.

Promo Mechanics: 1) Promo will be available starting from October 29, 2021 – January 31,2022 in the following additional areas as approved by DTI-FTEB:

5)

How to avail the promo: a. b. c. d.

6)

LUZON: NCR: Manila, Quezon City, Muntinlupa, Paranaque, Pasay, Taguig, Pateros, Makati, Pasig, Mandaluyong, San Juan, Caloocan, Malabon, Navotas, Valenzuela, Marikina, Las Pinas; Pangasinan: Basista, Bayambang, Binmaley, Dagupan, Manaoag, Mangatarem, San Manuel, San Carlos City, Lingayen (Capital), San Nicolas, Alaminos, Bolinao, Urdaneta, Urbiztondo, Bani, Bugallon, Mangaldan, Laoac, Dasol, Aguilar, Bautista, Binalonan, San Jacinto, Tayug, Santa Barbara, Malasiqui, Labrador, San Fabian, Infanta, Sual, Mapandan; La Union: Rosario; Bulacan: Pandi, San Jose del Monte, Malolos, Meycauayan, Marilao, Bocaue, Hagonoy, Bulacan, Plaridel, Baliuag, Guiguinto, Bustos, San Ildefonso, San Miguel, Santa Maria, San Rafael, Pulilan, Norzagaray, Balagtas (Bigaa), Angat; Nueva Ecija: Cabiao, Llanera, Palayan City, Santa Rosa, Santo Domingo Science City of Munoz, Talavera, Cabanatuan, Gapan City, San Leonardo, San Jose, General Mamerto Natividad, Rizal, Zaragoza, General Tinio (Papaya), Licab, Jaen, Quezon, Lupao, San Isidro, Guimba; Nueva Vizcaya: Dupax del Norte Pampanga: Angeles, Bacolor; Candaba, Guagua, Lubao, Mabalacat, Magalang Mexico, San Fernando, , San Simon, Santa Rita, Santa Ana;, Tarlac: Capas, Tarlac City, Concepcion, Gerona, La Paz, Mayantoc, Moncada ,Pura, Ramos, San Clemente, San Manuel, Victoria, Camiling, Paniqui; Zambales: Olongapo, Subic, San Marcelino,San Narciso; Santa Cruz, ; Bataan: Balanga, Dinalupihan, Orani, Samal, Abucay; Albay: Camalig, City Of Ligao, Daraga (Locsin), Legazpi City (Capital), Malilipot,Oas, Polangui, Libon, Malinao, Guinobatan; Batangas: Alitagtag, Bauan, Cuenca, San Jose, Ibaan, Batangas City, Malvar, Mataas na Kahoy, San Pascual, Santo Tomas, Lipa City, Talisay, Tanauan City, Taysan, Balete, Padre Garcia, San Juan, Balayan, Calaca, San Luis, Taal, Agoncillo, San Nicolas, Lian, Calatagan, Tuy, Laurel, Lobo; Camarines Norte: Basud, Daet (Capital); Talisay, Vinzons; Camarines Sur: Baao, Bato, Bombon, Bula, Canaman, Iriga City, Libmanan, Naga City, Ocampo, Pamplona, Pili (Capital), Sagnay, San Jose; Sipocot, Tigaon, Camaligan, Magarao, Cabusao, Lagonoy, Milaor, Calabanga; Cavite: Kawit, Bacoor, Imus, Tagaytay City, Silang, Dasmarinas, Carmona, Amadeo, Rosario, Mendez, Indang, Alfonso, General Trias, Trece Martirez, Tanza, Magallanes. Naic, Maragondon, Noveleta, Ternate; Laguna: Bay, San Pedro, Sta Rosa, Binan, Cabuyao, Los Banos, Calamba City, Victoria, Calauan, Alaminos, San Pablo, Majayjay, Luisiana, Rizal, Nagcarlan; Quezon: Candelaria, City of Tayabas, Pagbilao, San Antonio, Sariaya, Valencia, Lucban, Lucena City (Capital), Pitogo, Unisan, Lopezalnbay; Rizal: Antipolo, Cainta, Taytay; Sorsogon: City of Sorsogon (Capital); Irosin, Casiguran, Castilla;

Log-in on the DITO App. Go to the App Home Page then select the 10GB Data Promo. Subscriber must click on the confirmation button to proceed with the purchase of the offer. Subscriber will receive confirmation via APP and SMS.

Promo shall only be offered in the following areas: LUZON: NCR: Manila, Quezon City, Muntinlupa, Paranaque, Pasay, Taguig, Pateros, Makati, Pasig, Mandaluyong, San Juan, Caloocan, Malabon, Navotas, Valenzuela, Marikina, Las Pinas; Pangasinan: Basista, Bayambang, Binmaley, Dagupan, Manaoag, Mangatarem, San Manuel, San Carlos City, Lingayen (Capital), San Nicolas, Alaminos, Bolinao, Urdaneta, Urbiztondo, Bani, Bugallon, Mangaldan, Laoac, Dasol, Aguilar, Bautista, Binalonan, San Jacinto, Tayug, Santa Barbara, Malasiqui, Labrador, San Fabian, Infanta, Sual, Mapandan; La Union: Rosario; Bulacan: Pandi, San Jose del Monte, Malolos, Meycauayan, Marilao, Bocaue, Hagonoy, Bulacan, Plaridel, Baliuag, Guiguinto, Bustos, San Ildefonso, San Miguel, Santa Maria, San Rafael, Pulilan, Norzagaray, Balagtas (Bigaa), Angat; Nueva Ecija: Cabiao, Llanera, Palayan City, Santa Rosa, Santo Domingo Science City of Munoz, Talavera, Cabanatuan, Gapan City, San Leonardo, San Jose, General Mamerto Natividad, Rizal, Zaragoza, General Tinio (Papaya), Licab, Jaen, Quezon, Lupao, San Isidro, Guimba; Nueva Vizcaya: Dupax del Norte Pampanga: Angeles, Bacolor; Candaba, Guagua, Lubao, Mabalacat, Magalang Mexico, San Fernando, , San Simon, Santa Rita, Santa Ana;, Tarlac: Capas, Tarlac City, Concepcion, Gerona, La Paz, Mayantoc, Moncada ,Pura, Ramos, San Clemente, San Manuel, Victoria, Camiling, Paniqui; Zambales: Olongapo, Subic, San Marcelino,San Narciso; Santa Cruz, ; Bataan: Balanga, Dinalupihan, Orani, Samal, Abucay; Albay: Camalig, City Of Ligao, Daraga (Locsin), Legazpi City (Capital), Malilipot,Oas, Polangui, Libon, Malinao, Guinobatan; Batangas: Alitagtag, Bauan, Cuenca, San Jose, Ibaan, Batangas City, Malvar, Mataas na Kahoy, San Pascual, Santo Tomas, Lipa City, Talisay, Tanauan City, Taysan, Balete, Padre Garcia, San Juan, Balayan, Calaca, San Luis, Taal, Agoncillo, San Nicolas, Lian, Calatagan, Tuy, Laurel, Lobo; Camarines Norte: Basud, Daet (Capital); Talisay, Vinzons; Camarines Sur: Baao, Bato, Bombon, Bula, Canaman, Iriga City, Libmanan, Naga City, Ocampo, Pamplona, Pili (Capital), Sagnay, San Jose; Sipocot, Tigaon, Camaligan, Magarao, Cabusao, Lagonoy, Milaor, Calabanga; Cavite: Kawit, Bacoor, Imus, Tagaytay City, Silang, Dasmarinas, Carmona, Amadeo, Rosario, Mendez, Indang, Alfonso, General Trias, Trece Martirez, Tanza, Magallanes. Naic, Maragondon, Noveleta, Ternate; Laguna: Bay, San Pedro, Sta Rosa, Binan, Cabuyao, Los Banos, Calamba City, Victoria, Calauan, Alaminos, San Pablo, Majayjay, Luisiana, Rizal, Nagcarlan; Quezon: Candelaria, City of Tayabas, Pagbilao, San Antonio, Sariaya, Valencia, Lucban, Lucena City (Capital), Pitogo, Unisan, Lopezalnbay; Rizal: Antipolo, Cainta, Taytay; Sorsogon: City of Sorsogon (Capital); Irosin, Casiguran, Castilla;

VISAYAS: Aklan : Nabas Ibajay, Altayas; Capiz: Roxas City (Capital) Cebu: Toledo City, Balamban, Barili, Carcar, Cebu City, Compostela, Consolacion, Cordova, Danao, Liloan, Mandaue, Minglanilla, Naga, San Fernando, Lapu Lapu, Dumanjug, Talisay, Moalboal, Bogo City, San Remigio, Sogod, Alcantara, Santander, Ginatilan, Daanbantayan, Aloguinsan, Ronda, Sibonga Boljoon, Malabuyoc ; Iloilo: Iloilo City, Oton, Kalibo (Capital); Negros Occidental: Bacolod City, Kabankalan, Pulupandan, Silay City, Valladolid, Binalbagan, Murcia, Enrique B. Magalona (Saravia), Bago City; Negros Oriental: Dumaguete, Valencia, Sibulan, City of Tanjay

MINDANAO: Agusan Del Norte: City of Butuan, Buenavista; Agusan del Sur: Rosario, San Francisco, Trento, Bayugan, Santa Josefa, Prosperidad; Compostela Valley: Monkayo; Davao del Norte: Santo Tomas, Braulio E. Dujali, Panabo, Tagum, Carmen, Island City of Samal; Davao del Sur: Santa Cruz, Bansalan, Davao City, Digos, Hagonoy, Sulop; Davao de Oro: Montevista, Compostela, Nabunturan, Maco; Cotabato: Kidapawan, Makilala; South Cotabato: General Santos City, Polomolok; Bukidnon: Malaybalay, City of Valencia, Quezon, Don Carlos, Manolo Fortich, Baungon, Libona, Impasug-ong, Maramag; Kitaotao; Lanao Del Norte: Linamon, Baloi, City of Iligan; Misamis Oriental: Balingasag, Cagayan de Oro, Claveria, Talisayan, Manticao, Sugbongcogon, Medina, Kinoguitan, Binuangan, Balingoan, Naawan, Villanueva, City of El Salvador, Jasaan, Opol, Tagoloan, City of Gingoog, Lugait; Gitagum, Laguindingan, Libertad, Initao; Saranggani: Alabel Sultan Kudarat: City Of Tacurong

Thai-American Jack Titus is representing the state of Nevada in Mr. Gay World USA 2022.

Nickie Wang, Editor nickie.standard@gmail.com

MINDANAO: Agusan Del Norte: City of Butuan, Buenavista; Agusan del Sur: Rosario, San Francisco, Trento, Bayugan, Santa Josefa, Prosperidad; Compostela Valley: Monkayo; Davao del Norte: Santo Tomas, Braulio E. Dujali, Panabo, Tagum, Carmen, Island City of Samal; Davao del Sur: Santa Cruz, Bansalan, Davao City, Digos, Hagonoy, Sulop; Davao de Oro: Montevista, Compostela, Nabunturan, Maco; Cotabato: Kidapawan, Makilala; South Cotabato: General Santos City, Polomolok; Bukidnon: Malaybalay, City of Valencia, Quezon, Don Carlos, Manolo Fortich, Baungon, Libona, Impasug-ong, Maramag; Kitaotao; Lanao Del Norte: Linamon, Baloi, City of Iligan; Misamis Oriental: Balingasag, Cagayan de Oro, Claveria, Talisayan, Manticao, Sugbongcogon, Medina, Kinoguitan, Binuangan, Balingoan, Naawan, Villanueva, City of El Salvador, Jasaan, Opol, Tagoloan, City of Gingoog, Lugait; Gitagum, Laguindingan, Libertad, Initao; Saranggani: Alabel Sultan Kudarat: City Of Tacurong

7)

Promo resubscription is allowed even if the current subscription is active. The remaining data and off-net minutes allocation from the previous subscription will be carried over to the latest subscription.

7)

Promo resubscription is allowed even if the current subscription is active. The remaining data and off-net minutes allocation from the previous subscription will be carried over to the latest subscription.

8)

Once availed, the promo is non-refundable / non-replaceable / non-exchangeable. Promo is only valid for the subscriber’s DITO compatible mobile phone where the purchased DITO SIM and Promo are installed.

8)

Once availed, the promo is non-refundable / non-replaceable / non-exchangeable. Promo is only valid for the subscriber’s DITO compatible mobile phone where the purchased DITO SIM and Promo are installed.

9)

Promo cannot be used in conjunction with any unlimited promo offers, discount available and exclusive promo offers.

9)

Promo cannot be used in conjunction with any unlimited promo offers, discount available and exclusive promo offers.

10)

Promo cannot be converted to cash, credit, or other goods and services.

10)

Promo cannot be converted to cash, credit, or other goods and services.

11) By availing of the promo, the subscriber confirms that he/she has read, understood, and agreed to the promo mechanics, its terms, and conditions. Subscriber also agrees not to use the SIM and/or promo for illicit or illegal means. 12)

For any concerns and/or inquiries regarding the promo, information may be sent to customerservice@dito.ph. All matters and disputes will be subject to the final decision of DITO Telecommunity. All decisions made by DITO Telecommunity pertaining to the promo will be deemed final and irrevocable, with the prior concurrence of DTI. Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-118950 Series of 2021

11) By availing of the promo, the subscriber confirms that he/she has read, understood, and agreed to the promo mechanics, its terms, and conditions. Subscriber also agrees not to use the SIM and/or promo for illicit or illegal means. 12)

For any concerns and/or inquiries regarding the promo, information may be sent to customerservice@dito.ph. All matters and disputes will be subject to the final decision of DITO Telecommunity. All decisions made by DITO Telecommunity pertaining to the promo will be deemed final and irrevocable, with the prior concurrence of DTI. Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-123441 Series of 2021

(MS-OCT. 29, 2021)

Life

Bernadette Lunas, Editor manilastandardlife@gmail.com @manilastandardlife @MStandardLIFE

B4

TRAVEL AND LEISURE

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2021

A tropical paradise welcome awaits guests to the Bluewater Sumilon Island Resort in Cebu.

A birds-eye view of the beautiful Henann Resort Alona Beach in Bohol.

Ready for you

Vista del Mar Resort in Zamboanga City has a unique offer — a treehouse, complete with facilities that will pamper you and ensure a very comfortable and memorable stay.

H

EAR ye, hear ye! The quarantine alert levels here in Metro Manila have been lowered, and some of our domestic destinations have announced that RT-PCR tests are no longer required for fully vaccinated visitors.

Naturally, the stakeholders of our country’s accommodation industry are now grinning from ear to ear as they also declared the completion of their respective preparations in seeing to the safety of their guests. From Luzon to Visayas to Mindanao, member hotels and resorts of the Hotel Sales and Marketing Association (HSMA) Philippines are confidently opening their doors to guests with what can be called an “added safety armor” – practically all their staff, totaling more than 15,000, have already been fully vaccinated. HSMA, with Benjie Martinez, area director of sales and marketing at Bayleaf Hotels, as president, just completed another highly successful run of their September Online Sale (SOS). Just like last year, its member hotels offered discounts on rooms and ancillary services, as much as 70 percent, in the form of e-vouchers that could be used in a span of a year from the date of purchase,

The Crimson Resort and Spa in Boracay is ready to pamper quarantine-weary guests.

and may be extended upon request. Thanks to their collaborative partnerships with Martinez happily reported the overwhelming local government leaders, the DOT, and the Metro success of this year’s edition of SOS, as they Manila Development Authority, led by the Metro doubled last year’s revenues resulting to almost Manila Council, the HSMA member-properties triple of last year’s voucher sales. This year’s will certainly reach their target of 100-percent month-long promo was in partnership with the vaccination rate in a matter of days. Department of Tourism This vaccination (DOT), Tourism drive is in line with YOUR WEEKEND CHUCKLE Promotions Board, the DOT’s “Safe Trip, Atlantis, iSentia, and Marriage is a relationship where one person is Pinas” campaign, an Cebu Pacific Air. initiative established always right and the other person is the husband. Loleth So, HSMA with the interest of vice president, happily every Filipino’s health announced that, as of now, 98 percent of the staff and safety in mind. Through this campaign, of their 125 member-properties have already the DOT is working with hotels and resorts to received their complete vaccine dosage. As implement strict protocols and precautionary early as March this year, she reached out to and measures set by the World Health Organization coordinated with each property’s human resource (WHO) to make travel safe for both their guests department to ensure their access to the amount of and employees. vaccines they required. Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat

declared that inoculating our country’s tourism front-liners is a key factor in reopening our industry, as it restores the public’s confidence to travel, resulting in higher socio-economic activities towards boosting our recovery prospects. And for all of you who are now getting ready to rediscover our country’s many beautiful tourist attractions, you are now guaranteed an extra layer of protection, thanks to our accommodation industry’s proactive efforts in making these preparations so that they can, once again, promise you those memorable, “Instagramable” moments as they pamper you with their unique brand of Filipino hospitality. So, now, where will it be? Luzon, Visayas or Mindanao? Our beautiful country is ready for you! For feedback, I’m at bobzozobrado@gmail.com

Spook-tacular Halloween treats and activities NO TRICKS, just treats even if kids and kids at heart spend another Halloween at home. Here’s a hair-raising lineup of special creations and virtual events for this weekend.

Marks & Spencer’s Dragon Eggs and (inset) Florentine’s Burnt Honey Cake

For ghostly gatherings Grand Hyatt Manila’s Florentine offers a delectable 8-inch Burnt Honey Cake made of sponge cake with layers of Dulce de Leche, burnt honey, and cream cheese filling at P1,850 net. For pumpkin-themed parties, its Pumpkin Pie (P900 net) features a mix of flavors of nutmeg and cinnamon, while the Pumpkin Cupcake (P250 net) is a vanilla muffin with dark chocolate ganache.

These treats are available today until Oct. 31 at Florentine or through Dine at Home (bit.ly/DineAtHomeGHM). Marks and Spencer offers spook-tacular Halloween line of treats, including Zombie Eyeballs, Creepy Chocolate Lollipops, Sour Spiders, Milk Ghosts, and Graveyard Festival, Spooky Ombles Choco Pops, Dragon Eggs, Bubbly Boo, Net of Ghoulish Gang, and Vampire Fangs. The aforementioned Halloween treats are only available in select M&S stores. Doom on Zoom It is a huge Halloween gathering as Crimson Hotels and Resorts in Filinvest City, Mactan, and Boracay; Quest Hotels in Tagaytay, Clark, and Cebu; and Timberland Highlands Activity kit for Resort invite guests to Crimson’s Wicked celebrate virtually. Halloween On Oct. 30, 2:00 p.m., a Wicked Halloween will entertain kids via Zoom with activities from Tinker House, an interactive magic show by Dale Rubio, and a Best in Costume contest where they can Savoy Manila hosts win gift certificates a virtual program for from any of the children aged 3 to 10. aforementioned hotels. Email marcomm@ chromahospitality.com for more details. Savoy Hotel Manila invites children 3 to 10 years old to join the Blox Halloween Bash

virtual party on Oct. 31 from 3:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. The 1000-peso ticket per child gives them access to the online party that includes interactive games and entertaining activities; a special loot bag with pastries, activity kit, assorted snacks; a discount voucher; Sparky the plushie; and other freebies. Two winners will win the Best in Halloween Costume. Hotel gift certificates will be raffled off. Go to its Facebook page to register. Outdoor surprises Children eager to have fun outside safely are invited to Spook Street, a drive-by Halloween event at 9th Avenue in Bonifacio Global City on Oct. 30-31. For a minimum purchase of P1,500 from any Bonifacio High Street merchants on Oct. 23-31 entitle BGCitizens and guests loot bags filled with treats. Go to Bonifacio High Street on Facebook and Instagram. Araneta, dubbed the City of Firsts, has a lineup of events on Oct. 2830. Community Fair (retail and al fresco dining) at New Frontier Theater Arcade on Oct. 2830, drive-thru trick or treat at Gateway Mall Drive & Go pickup station on Oct. 30, and Horror in Color virtual Halloween show on BGC is having a two-day drive-by Halloween event. Oct. 30, 3:00 p.m. via Facebook Live.

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